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El Merriekh Bentiu topple Koryom Bor at SSPL summit with 3-2 victory

Author: Michael Daniel | Published: January 25, 2025

El Merriekh-Koryom encounter. (Photo: SSFA/Facebook).

El Merriekh FC Bentiu handed Koryom FC Bor their first defeat of the season on Friday after a dramatic comeback victory that sent them to the summit of South Sudan Premier League.

The fierce encounter at Juba National Stadium saw El-Merriekh overturn a two-goal deficit to win 3-2, in front of a huge crowd of excited spectators.

Koryom FC Bor took an early lead in the 20th minute with striker Angufi Ali taking his chance from a free-kick opportunity. Ali doubled the advantage eight minutes later with a penalty kick after El Merriekh goalkeeper’s foul on Koryom forward inside the box.

Despite Koryom’s dominance and tight midfield control, El Merriekh’s experienced forward Mohamed Musa pulled one back just before halftime, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

The second half saw El-Merriekh adopt a more aggressive approach as Mohamed Musa converted a penalty in the 55th minute, leveling the score after a defensive error from opponents.

Momentum shifted in El-Merriekh’s favor, and strategic adjustments by their coach, Richard Justin, strengthened their attack.

The decisive moment came in the 68th minute when David scored the winning goal, sealing a 3-2 victory for El Merriekh.

Koryom Bor launched several counterattacks in an attempt to equalize, but El Merriekh’s goalkeeper and defense were solid until the final whistle.

“We faced an organized team that plays fast and good football, but the experience factor helped us come back and win. The match was not easy,” said El Merriekh coach Richard Justin after the match.

The victory places El Merriekh Bentiu on top of the league by goal difference over Koryom Bor, as both teams have 15 points.

Before the El Merriekh-Koryom showdown, Malakia Juba were held to 1-1 draw by Olympic Renk who earned their first point of the league.

Olympic Renk came close to clinching victory in the final minutes, but Malakia’s vigilant defense and goalkeeping thwarted several dangerous attacks.

 

 

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