By Evaline Martins.
In a moment of triumph and unshakable pride, Yei Joint Stars Football Club defeated Wajuma Queens 2-0 in their last match of the season at the Juba National Stadium to claim the long awaited national league title. The thrilling match, played before a jubilant home crowd, further cemented the club’s dominance in South Sudanese women’s football and set the stage for their much- anticipated friendly against Uganda’s Kampala Queens this Sunday
Speaking after the match, Development Director Dogga Isaac Samson widely known as Doggy expressed pride in the team’s journey and provided insight into what the victory means for the future of the club.
“This is our tenth game, and the fans have never disappointed not once,” he said. “Today’s energy was unmatched. Perhaps it was the anticipation of the trophy, but it was clear the girls came into this match with purpose.”
Dogga, a founding member and former club secretary, currently oversees both financial operations and football development at Yei Joint Stars. He emphasized that the team’s success is rooted in consistency, strong community support, and years of strategic planning.
Despite the solid 2–0 scoreline, Samson revealed that the players had more in the tank but were managing their energy ahead of the international fixture.
“To be honest, two goals are not enough for us. We’ve beaten some teams 20–0, 10–0, 5–0 even the second-placed team. But I think the girls were conserving their energy for our friendly match against Kampala Queens.”
Doggie emphasized that the team’s mission extends beyond the football pitch.
“This is more than football,” he stated. “From girls needing permission to play in 2021 to now representing us internationally this is a movement. We’re building leaders. The game is creating opportunities, and the change is visible.”
The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, bolstered by a lively crowd and a mix of South Sudanese celebrities who came out in support of the team.
Popular local artist AKJ was among the many who turned up. Though not an avid football follower, he described the experience as “unifying and deeply motivational.”
“I’ve been the number one fan of the Yei Joint Stars from the start,” AKJ said. “It’s not just about this game. I’ve followed their journey because they represent courage and hope.”
He called on fellow male artists to actively support women’s football, stressing its cultural significance.
“I wanted to be an example that artists can stand with football, especially women’s teams. It’s part of entertainment, part of our culture. These girls are not just playing they’re making history.”
Also in attendance was celebrated guitarist Janet Marcello, known as Jessy 211, who has earned a reputation for blending traditional South Sudanese rhythms with modern guitar techniques.
“Watching the girls play felt like watching the rhythm of society shift,” Jessy said. “If I were to create a beat from today, it would be traditional with a modern twist just like this team: rooted, but reaching higher.”
Artist Donna Deliga Michael, known by his stage name Don Kalas, also showed up despite not being a typical football enthusiast.
“Honestly, I’m not a big football watcher, but today I came for the love for the game, for the team, for home. From dancing to cheering, everything felt just right,” he said. “I didn’t need to know all the players by name to feel proud of every one of them.”
In the stands, the crowd was led by cheer captain Gifted Bless, known formally as Gift Godfrey. With chants, drums, and waving flags, she kept the energy high throughout the match.
“It was peace, unity, and love,” she said. “The energy today wasn’t just about football it was about community. We danced not just because we won, but because we belong here.”
Doggie reiterated that Yei Joint Stars are not just winning games they are redefining what is possible for young women across South Sudan.
“We don’t just develop footballers we’re raising responsible citizens, future mothers, and leaders,” he said. “At first, we had to write letters to parents. Some resisted. But now, they’re proud.”
As the team gears up for Sunday’s clash with Kampala Queens, Doggie called on the public to continue supporting their champions.
“Let’s stand behind these girls. They’re not just playing they’re making history.” he said
This is the second time Yei Joint Stars has emerged as champions since the inception of the South Sudan Women’s National League in 2021
Lito Dorka of El Meriekh Juba was crowned the league’s top scorer with 26 goals, while the captain of Yei Joint Stars Mary Dawa secured the Best Player of the session. Nawal Isaac Henry took home the title of Goalkeeper of the League, adding further prestige to a historic season.
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