Sports

SOUTH SUDAN U-17 LOSE TO ETHIOPIA AT THE CECAFA CHAMPIONSHIP

ETHIOPIA: South Sudan’s U-17 Bright Stars suffered a heavy 1–4 defeat to hosts Ethiopia in the ongoing AFCON CECAFA U-17 Zonal Qualifiers in Addis Ababa. The result leaves South Sudan with a tough path ahead as they continue their quest for a place in the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. 

At the Abebe Bikila Stadium, the Bright Stars started the match with energy and determination. But Ethiopia, playing in front of their home crowd, quickly took control of the game with fast movement and high pressing.

The hosts opened the scoring early, capitalizing on defensive gaps within the South Sudan backline. Ethiopia continued to dominate and added two more goals before halftime, putting the Bright Stars under intense pressure going into the break.

South Sudan improved in the second half, pushing forward and eventually pulling one goal back through a well-worked team move — a moment that showcased their fighting spirit despite the scoreline.

However, Ethiopia responded immediately, restoring their comfortable lead with a fourth goal that sealed the match. The home side maintained possession in the final minutes to secure a convincing 4–1 victory over South Sudan.

With this loss, the Bright Stars will need to regroup quickly as they look ahead to their remaining fixtures in the CECAFA U-17 Championship, where every point will be crucial for keeping their AFCON qualification hopes alive.

South Sudan’s U-17 squad returns to training tomorrow as preparations intensify for their next decisive group match.