Viva Star FC stand on the brink of a historic milestone as they prepare to face Al Nil FC in the semi-finals of the Juba Football Association (JFA) South Sudan Cup today at Munuki Playground.
The Fighters have an opportunity to reach the competition's final for the first time in their history, but standing in their way is an ambitious Al Nil side that has already demonstrated its ability to eliminate first-division opposition.
Under head coach Nasir Yusif, Viva Star have developed into one of the competition's most impressive outfits, particularly in defensive organisation. They have scored nine goals without conceding, maintaining a perfect defensive record throughout their cup campaign.
For Yusif, the occasion carries an additional personal dimension. Having guided El Merriekh FC to last year's final before losing the title, the tactician now has another opportunity to reach the decisive stage of the competition with a different club.
Interestingly, El Merriekh have already secured their place in this year's final and will be watching closely to discover whether Viva Star or Al Nil will join them.
Jackson leads the attacking charge
While Viva Star's defensive discipline has attracted attention, Khalifa Jackson has been equally influential at the other end of the pitch.
The versatile forward has scored four goals to become the competition's leading scorer, delivering consecutive braces against Neran FC and Gurei United FC.
His performances have also earned him a call-up to the South Sudan U23 national team, providing further recognition of his growing impact.
Jackson will once again be central to Viva Star's attacking ambitions, alongside striker Mangisto Ceasar, popularly known as Mbappe, who also has two goals in the competition.
The Fighters' road to the semi-finals
Viva Star opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Talanga FC in the Kator Derby at Bulluk Playground, with midfielder Mai Chagor scoring the decisive goal.
They subsequently produced a commanding 6-0 victory against third-division side Neran FC in the Round of 16 at Zahra Playground.
Jackson and Mbappe both registered braces, while Mai Chagor added another goal before an own goal completed the scoring.
The Fighters then overcame second-division outfit Gurei United FC 2-0 in the quarter-finals at Simba Playground, with Jackson scoring both goals to secure their semi-final ticket.
Al Nil provide the next examination
Despite Viva Star's impressive statistics, Al Nil FC will present a different challenge.
Rami Gabriel's second-division side have built their own impressive cup story, eliminating first-division opponents Gudele FC and Nyakuron FC to reach the last four.
Their attacking credentials were particularly evident in a thrilling 5-4 quarter-final victory over Nyakuron, demonstrating the firepower that could test Viva Star's previously unbreached defence.
The contrast is intriguing: Al Nil arrive with confidence from their ability to score against top-flight opposition, while Viva Star have yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
For the Fighters, maintaining their defensive concentration while capitalising on Jackson's attacking threat could prove crucial.
With a maiden final appearance at stake and El Merriekh already waiting, Viva Star have an opportunity to turn an outstanding cup campaign into a historic achievement.
Will Nasir Yusif lead the Fighters to their first-ever JFA Cup final and get another opportunity to compete for the trophy, or will Al Nil produce another top-flight upset to end Viva Star's perfect defensive run?
