By Kei Emmanuel Duku
South Sudan Football Association (SSFA) has confirmed departure of women’s national team, head coach, Mohamed Sidi Karoune, by mutual agreement.
The SSFA noted that, Coach Karoune has been facing personal challenges due to the death of his mother, impacting his ability to effectively fulfill his duties.
Karoune was appointed in September 2023, succeeding Shilene Booysen, who had held the position since 2021.
“We recognize the dedication and passion Coach Karoune brought to the team and are grateful for his contributions during his tenure. Our thoughts are with him during this difficult time,” the SSFA stated on their Facebook page.
Karoune’s departure comes as the Bright Starlets prepare to host Algeria at Juba National Stadium on Wednesday, February 19, in the Women’s African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The return match will be played in Blida, Algeria, on Tuesday, February 25.
The SSFA has appointed Simon James Yor as interim coach. The association cited his abilities to lead the team successfully during this transition.
Yor becomes the seventh coach of the Bright Starlets since the team’s inception. Shara Edwards was the first coach in 2011, followed by Sabino Domaso and Mose Machar.
Domaso was reappointed briefly in 2019 before Shilene Booysen, a South African, took over in 2021, serving until 2023.
During Karoune’s tenure (2023-2024), the Bright Starlets played two friendlies in Tanzania, losing 3-0 to Tanzania and defeating Seychelles 5-1.
South Sudan will face Algeria in the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations qualifiers. Records from October 23, 2021, show the team has won one, drawn none, and lost nine of ten matches.