FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to visit Juba to attend the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Bright Stars and Sudan on June 11, 2024.
The announcement of Infantino’s planned visit was made by Victor Lual, the General Secretary of South Sudan’s Football Association (SSFA).
The match is scheduled to take place at the Juba National Stadium, and Infantino’s presence is expected to add prestige to the event.
”We are happy that the FIFA President will be the chief guest during this inauguration and also watch the match. This stadium has been refurbished with funding from the World Football body,” Lual told CECAFAONLINE.
It’s notable that Gianni Infantino has a history of engagement with South Sudan’s football development. His previous visit in 2016, where he inaugurated the South Sudan Football Association headquarters, underscored FIFA’s commitment to supporting the growth of the sport in the country.
Meeting with President Salva Kiir and attending matches like the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier demonstrate FIFA’s interest in promoting football in emerging nations like South Sudan.
As the newest member of FIFA since 2012, South Sudan continues to receive attention and support from the global football community in its efforts to develop the sport locally.
The competition in Group B of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers appears to be intense, with multiple teams vying for a spot in the tournament. Currently, the Teranga Lions of Senegal lead the group with four points, followed closely by Sudan, also on four points but with a slightly lower goal difference.
South Sudan’s Bright Stars, with one point from a draw, are currently at the bottom of the group standings.
However, with several matches left to play, including an upcoming away qualifier against Mauritania, the Bright Stars have an opportunity to improve their position and challenge for advancement in the tournament.
Beyond Group B, other teams from the CECAFA Zone are also contending in the qualifiers.
These teams include Djibouti, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Somalia, and Uganda. Each of these nations will be aiming to secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026, showcasing the competitive nature of football within the region.
