The football ban is gone. The football is back. And, reportedly, so is the fighting.
Just weeks after authorities lifted a suspension on community football tournaments in Juba, supporters of Aweil South and Rumbek North have reportedly clashed during a penalty shootout.
The match was supposed to be heading toward a simple football ending: someone scores, someone misses, and everyone goes home arguing about the referee.
Instead, tensions reportedly spilled over among supporters as the shootout unfolded.
Aweil South reportedly missed two penalties, while Rumbek North missed one. Then the mood changed, with fighting breaking out among supporters.
The exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear.
On 17 August, Central Equatoria State suspended community sports tournaments in Juba after violence at football grounds raised concerns over public safety.
State Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Bush Buse issued Ministerial Order No. 07/2026 following clashes at Munuki Playground after a match between Twic Mayardit and Cueibet, as well as a separate firearm-related intimidation incident at Buluk Playground.
The suspension was not simply a suggestion to “play nicely.”
Authorities ordered community sports associations and teams to register with the Central Equatoria State Youth and Sports Registration Commission before organizing tournaments. Security agencies were also directed to enforce the order.
On 24 August, the suspension was lifted, but authorities attached conditions: tournaments required prior approval, venues needed adequate security and security checks, while teams, players and supporters involved in violence could face sanctions.
Now, barely weeks after football was allowed back, another reported fight has put those conditions back in the spotlight.
For football fans, the penalty spot may have been the centre of attention. For security officials, it could once again become the question of what happens after the final whistle.
And if football is meant to be a game of 90 minutes, Juba’s latest drama suggests the supporters may still have their own extra time.
It remains unclear whether anyone was injured or arrested, or whether the match was completed after the reported confrontation.
