By Chol D. Johnson
Parents have been urged to support girls’ participation in sports after Gudelle FA girls’ team staged an impressive 2–1 comeback victory over Young Dream FA in a friendly match held on Saturday at Gumbo Basic football field.
The event organised by UNICEF and GREDO South Sudan was part of World Children’s Day celebrations under the theme “My Day – My Right, Second Chance.”
As part of the commemorations, the event featured a range of activities aimed at giving children space to learn, play and express themselves.
Young Dream FA coach Mandela Deng urged parents and sports lovers to support children especially girls to build their talents and create a peaceful, united environment where they can thrive.
“Our children deserve the chance to explore their talents without barriers. When parents stand with them, especially the girls, we open doors for a brighter and more peaceful future,” Deng said.
During the event, football, volleyball, basketball and kids’ games all designed to promote child-friendly spaces brought together children from the Gumbo community.
The match saw Young Dream FA take an early 1–0 lead in the first half before Gudelle FA mounted a strong comeback. Seventeen-year-old Sarah Nyalith scored both goals that secured the victory for Gudelle.
“It was an exciting win. With unity and teamwork, we made a strong comeback,” Sarah said.
She urged parents to let girls participate fully in sports, emphasising that football is not just for boys. “What boys can do, we can do it,” she added.
Young Dream captain Abuk Nyok Deng, 19, praised the event for offering girls a rare platform to compete.
“It’s our first time to play such an amazing game. I’m so excited,” she said.
She encouraged parents to give girls space and a second chance to explore their talents, as reflected in the event’s theme.
Coaches from both teams echoed similar concerns. Gudelle FA coach Bulley Sanilo appreciated UNICEF and GREDO for organising the event but highlighted challenges, including parents who still discourage girls from playing and the shortage of equipment.
“We lack balls and sport kits to train the girls,” he said, appealing for support from well-wishers.
As the celebrations concluded, one message stood out clearly: girls can excel in sports when given the opportunity and parents play a central role in unlocking that potential.