By Baraka John
The Yambio Football Association (YFA) has made a heartfelt appeal to businesses and well-wishers to invest in grassroots football, as local clubs continue to struggle with limited financial support.
Speaking on Sunday evening at the Yambio Freedom Square during the finals of the inaugural TK Sports Super Cup 2025, YFA Vice President Justin Rotto said football in Western Equatoria is surviving on the sacrifices of club boards, who often shoulder the burden of feeding players on matchdays.
“That is not enough,” Rotto stressed. “We are calling on all companies and individuals to join hands with the Yambio Football Association to promote football in this state. As an association, we are ready to collaborate with any partner who shares our vision to develop the game.”
His remarks struck a chord as many clubs face mounting challenges, from covering transport costs to providing proper kits, training facilities, and player welfare. The call for support reflects the wider reality of grassroots sports across South Sudan, where both government and private sector investment remains scarce.
Adding her voice, Koro Silvana Bring, Director General of the Western Equatoria State Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports, appealed directly to fans. She urged supporters to channel their passion positively and refrain from violence during matches.
“Our biggest problem is with the fans,” Bring said. “Every time football is played in Yambio, there are fights outside the pitch. This must stop. Let’s enjoy football as a sport that unites us.”
The day ended on a high note with an electrifying final. Nile City FC edged Villa United 2–1 to claim the first-ever TK Sports Super Cup title. New signing Emmanuel Akuana, who recently joined from St. Mary, announced his arrival in style with a thunderous opener that sent the crowd into wild celebration.
Star forward Tayason Teyana doubled Nile City’s lead before halftime with a clinical finish. Villa United fought back valiantly, with midfield maestro Ndimasco Bakparo pulling one back in the second half. Despite their spirited push, an equalizer never came.
At full-time, Nile City players celebrated with medals, a shining trophy, and a cash prize courtesy of TK Sports, while Villa United also received medals and a commendable cash reward.
Football fans cheer on the action during matches in Yambio. (Photo: Baraka John/King Media)
In what could be a game-changing boost, reliable sources revealed that TK Sports is set to officially sponsor the Yambio First Division League for the next three seasons (2025/26–2027/28). YFA President Joseph Ndepi Ndende is currently in Juba finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would secure the deal.
For now, the hope within Yambio’s football circles is clear: with corporate support, the region’s vibrant football culture can be sustained, nurtured, and celebrated well into the future.