FIFA President Gianni Infantino arrived in Juba, South Sudan, on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, for the inauguration of the Juba National Stadium.
This Juba National Stadium inauguration marks a significant moment in South Sudan’s football history, with the country hosting its first-ever World Cup qualifier match.
Joining Infantino for the inauguration ceremony were South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, and the President of the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA), Augustino Parek.
President Salva Kiir is set to inaugurate the Juba National Stadium as Bright Stars prepares to face Sudan in FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 Qualifiers match next week on 11-6-2024 pic.twitter.com/lXp7ZU9LVu
— Denilson Deneki Saniki (@deneki_saniki) June 6, 2024
The event showcased the country’s dedication to developing its football infrastructure, with FIFA investing nearly $7 million (£5.49 million) to support the work in the capital.
This significant investment has transformed the Juba National Stadium into a state-of-the-art facility, setting a new standard for football venues in the region.
The inauguration was followed by a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between South Sudan and Sudan, marking the first time a FIFA World Cup qualifier has been held in the country.
Although South Sudan’s team, the Bright Stars, lost 3-0 to Sudan, the occasion remained a resounding success.
Infantino expressed his delight at the progress made in South Sudan, emphasizing the power of football to unite and inspire.
“Today, with football, we unite the world, we unite South Sudan, we unite Africa, we unite all the people who love our game”, said Infantino.
“We do this here, in your capital, in Juba.I am very happy today and I’m very proud to assist on this historic day, 11 June 2024 for a historic game”, he added.
