UNMISS-supported Football Peace Cup unites Pibor's diverse youth groups
GREATER PIBOR – The air was buzzing with excitement as fans gathered in Pibor for a thrilling match between young athletes competing for the Football Peace Cup tournament.More than just a competition, this event symbolized the growing sense of unity, resilience, and commitment to secure peaceful coexistence among youth living across the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.Supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, friendly play-offs united local clubs, youth leaders, and community members, fostering teamwork and promoting peacebuilding in a spirited atmosphere.In an exciting semi-final match, Greenland FC emerged victorious over Holy Family FC with a narrow 1–0 win, earning a spot in the championship final.“Sports have an incredible ability to unite people,” explain footballer Allan Arzen from the Holy Family team who excelled with a standout performance. “These games demonstrate how sports can heal and connect communities affected by conflict, reminding us that true victory lies in fostering understanding and building connections.”In the second leg, St. Francis FC took on Dragon Football Club before an increasingly energetic crowd.“The competition creates young role models for positive community change,” said Pibor Local Football Association’s James Allan.Heavy rainfall and other local football activities led to the postponement of the semi-finals and finals. Despite having to reschedule the tournament, large crowds turned out for the final games when it reconvened, filling the venue for the cup final, which ended in a 1–1 draw and went to a penalty shootout. In the end, St. Francis FC emerged as the tournament champions.“The tournament generated excitement among the community and demonstrated the importance of football as a uniting force, promoting reconciliation and peace among youth as well as across diverse communities,” emphasized Ogebe Omot, Acting Chief Administrator of Greater Pibor Administrative Area.“Sports provide young people with opportunities to connect and understand the importance of grassroots initiatives for peace and unity in South Sudan,” echoed UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer, Okello Christopher.--By Mach Samuel
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