By Kei Emmanuel Duku
Jamus FC emerged victorious in the South Sudan Cup final on Sunday evening, defeating Malakia FC 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Malakia FC dominated much of the match, creating numerous scoring opportunities, including a missed chance by former Atlabara FC Juba and Al-Nasir FC Yei striker Mandela Nelson in the first half.
However, Jamus FC capitalized on set-piece opportunities, taking the lead in the 58th minute through Muddathir Yahya. Malakia FC responded six minutes later with an equalizer from Captain Emmanuel Jowang before Mabior Herjok gave the Royals the lead in the 69th minute.
With time running out, Jamus FC resorted to aerial balls and set pieces, eventually equalizing in the fifth minute of added time through Yahana Paulino, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Jamus FC goalkeeper Majak Mawaith emerged as the hero, saving one of Malakia FC’s penalties to secure a second consecutive South Sudan Cup title for the Buffalos.
Malakia FC’s Emmanuel Jowang was named Man of the Match, while teammate Toni Hassien shared the Golden Boot award with Al-Shoullah’s Toni Kulang. Majak Mawaith received the Golden Glove Award for his outstanding performance.
This victory marks Jamus FC’s second consecutive triumph over Malakia FC in a major final. The two teams last met in the Juba Local Football Association Super Cup mid this year, with James FC once again emerging victorious.
Jamus FC will now represent the Juba Local Football Association in next year’s South Sudan Cup Championship.