South Sudan’s Yei Joint Stars staged a remarkable comeback to beat Zanzibar’s JKU Princess 4-2 in a thrilling Group C match of the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA qualifiers on Monday.
JKU started on the front foot, scoring two early goals at the Ulinzi Complex in Nairobi.
Winfrida Mathias opened the scoring inside the first minute before capitalizing on a defensive lapse to double the lead just two minutes later, leaving Yei Joint Stars with an uphill task.
Despite the shaky start, Yei Joint Stars gradually settled into the game, displaying determination and urgency. Their persistence paid off in the 34th minute when Grace Aluka pulled one back, giving the South Sudanese side hope going into the break with JKU Princess still leading 2-1.
After the restart, both sides pushed forward in search of more goals. Yei Joint Stars took advantage of the lapses and came out stronger, turning the game on its head.
Immaculate Ambayo equalized before Mariam Luis Lasuba struck almost immediately to put Yei 3-2 ahead.
The South Sudanese side managed the game smartly thereafter, absorbing pressure and slowing down play. Their victory was sealed late on when JKU conceded an unfortunate own goal, confirming Yei’s 4-2 triumph.
Yei Joint Stars head coach, Isaac Lomoro, praised his team’s resilience, noting that the win reflected lessons learned from past experiences. Team captain Mary Dawa Marco echoed his sentiments, attributing the performance to the strong bond and chemistry within the squad, built over years of playing together.
In an earlier Group B match Rayong Sports WFC (Rwanda) were held to a goalless draw by Top Girls Academy from Burundi.
Action continues on Wednesday with Eritrea’s Denden SC facing Kenya Police Bullets.
By Anita Omwenga
