Sports

JUBA — In a consolidated move to foster community cohesion through athletics, the unified sports leadership of the Twic Mayardit community has officially appointed Mr. Lang Madhel Lang as the chairman of the highly anticipated Twic Mayardit Peace Tournament – Juba.

The appointment, ratified in a formal directive dated March 21, 2026, places Lang at the helm of one of the most prominent community-level sporting initiatives in the capital for a two-year term.

A Unified Mandate Across Six Payams

The official appointment letter was jointly issued and signed by the sports presidents of all six Twic Mayardit Payams, demonstrating a rare and highly coordinated front for youth engagement. The signatories include:

• Mr. Angelo Longar Magokdit (Akoc Payam)
• Mr. Makat Ater Makuac (Turalei Payam)
• Mr. Chan Zachariah Angui (Aweng Payam)
• Mr. Apiir Ater Ayuel (Pan-Nyok Payam)
• Mr. Bahr Gai Deng (Wunrok Payam)
• Mr. Charles Chol Mel (Ajak Kuac Payam)

Under this mandate, Mr. Lang is explicitly tasked with the end-to-end organization and coordination of the tournament. He is required to report directly to the joint assembly of the six Payam Sports presidents on all matters concerning the event’s execution.

Sports as a Vehicle for Peacebuilding

While on the surface this is an administrative sports appointment, the broader socio-political context of a “Peace Tournament” in Juba is significant. Such tournaments are vital platforms. They unify urban youth and mitigate inter-communal friction. They foster a shared cultural identity away from their home counties.

Notably, the appointment letter was officially copied to the Twic Mayardit Youth Association, the broader community leadership in Juba, and specifically to “All Security Operatives.” This inclusion highlights the massive logistical and crowd-control requirements expected for the tournament, signaling that the organizers anticipate large-scale attendance and are proactively coordinating with Juba’s state security apparatus to ensure a safe environment.

JUBA — The South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) has made an official announcement. They have mutually separated from Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach Nicolas Dupuis. This concludes his 28-month tenure just two weeks before critical Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification fixtures.

The announcement was delivered during a press briefing in Juba on Thursday. The Acting Chairperson of the National Team Committee, Abraham Ajo Kuol, emphasized the amicable nature of the departure.

The Mutual Settlement Agreement
SSFF officials stated that the decision was finalized. It was done through a mutual settlement agreement signed on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

No Financial Dispute: The Federation explicitly stressed that this was not a contract termination. It was not a dismissal either. The separation involves zero financial disputes. There are no outstanding legal liabilities between the SSFF and the departing coach.

Federation Gratitude: The SSFF publicly thanked Dupuis for his professionalism. They acknowledged his tactical guidance and overall contributions. These efforts helped in the structural development of the national team over the past two and a half years.

Dupuis’ Farewell: In his parting message, Dupuis expressed his gratitude to the Federation, the players, and the citizens of South Sudan. He urged fans to maintain their unwavering support for the Bright Stars during the upcoming transition.
Interim Leadership and the Djibouti Double-Header
The timing of the separation places immediate operational responsibility on the remaining technical bench.

Coach Ashu Steps Up: Assistant Coach Ashu has been appointed to temporarily lead the senior squad.

High-Stakes Fixtures: The interim leadership faces an immediate and high-pressure mandate. The Bright Stars are in the final stages of preparation. They are getting ready for a crucial AFCON qualification double-header against Djibouti. The matches are scheduled for March 26 and March 29, 2026.

Home Advantage: Both critical matches will be hosted domestically at the Juba National Stadium. This situation demands a rapid recalibration of the squad’s tactical approach. Ashu will temporarily command the squad.

LONDON/JUBA — The Premier League title race experienced a seismic shift over the weekend. Arsenal Football Club established a commanding seven-point lead at the top of the table. This followed a crucial, grinding victory. The Gunners capitalized perfectly on a rare slip by defending champions Manchester City. At the same time, the battle for European qualification saw dramatic reversals for both Chelsea and Liverpool.

Arsenal Capitalizes on Pragmatism

Manager Mikel Arteta’s side secured a vital 1-0 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion.

• Tactical Execution: Arsenal is increasingly relying on dead-ball efficiency to break down opponents. The team’s heavy reliance on set-pieces highlights a pragmatic shift to secure points when open play is stifled.
• Key Playmaker: Winger Bukayo Saka remains the instrumental engine of the squad, consistently creating the high-leverage situations that lead to these decisive set-piece goals.

Manchester City’s Title Defense Falters

As Arsenal secured maximum points, Manager Pep Guardiola’s squad suffered a massive setback in their pursuit of the title.

• Dropped Points: Manchester City drew 2-2 with Nottingham Forest. This result exposes unexpected defensive vulnerabilities during the crucial March run-in.
• Mounting Pressure: The dropped points place immense pressure on City. They must perfectly navigate the remainder of their fixture list if they hope to keep pace with the North London leaders.

The Race for Europe: Chelsea Surges, Liverpool Sinks

The weekend also radically reshaped the battle for the top five and Champions League qualification.

• Chelsea’s Resurgence: Chelsea Football Club surged into the top five following an emphatic 4-1 demolition of Aston Villa. The victory was driven entirely by a masterclass from forward Joao Pedro, who netted a decisive hat-trick.
• Liverpool’s Crisis: Conversely, Manager Jurgen Klopp’s (or current manager’s) Liverpool suffered a shock defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers. The unexpected loss severely damages their prospects of securing a Champions League spot. It raises immediate questions about the squad’s consistency.