KIGALI, Rwanda — August 21, 2026: South Sudan champions Yei Joint Stars FC opened their CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Qualifiers campaign in style, defeating Ethiopia’s Denden FC 3–0 at the Kigali Pele Stadium on Friday.
The victory puts the Super Queens top of Group A after the opening round of matches, following a goalless draw between Rayon Sports and Mazunzo FC in the second game of the day.
Yei Joint Stars, playing in the opening match of the tournament, got off to a flying start when Poni Esther put them ahead in the second minute with a well-taken free-kick that slipped through the hands of the Denden goalkeeper.
Denden nearly responded in the 11th minute when their own free-kick struck the crossbar, before the Ethiopian side continued to apply pressure on the South Sudanese champions.
Yei Joint Stars goalkeeper Nawal Isaac was called upon several times and produced a number of crucial saves to keep her side in front.
The South Sudan champions had a chance to double their advantage in the 37th minute after captain Mary Anger delivered a brilliant assist inside the box, but Juan Adong sent her effort over the crossbar.
Denden were then awarded a penalty in the 43rd minute after a shot inside the box deflected off Yei Joint Stars fullback Filda Amadario.
However, Nawal Isaac once again came to the rescue, producing an excellent save to deny the Ethiopian side and ensure Yei Joint Stars went into halftime with a 1–0 lead.
After the restart, coach Sony Harriet introduced Aluka Grace, and the substitute made an immediate impact.
With her first touch, Aluka raced behind the Denden defence before firing a powerful right-footed effort into the net in the 52nd minute, following a superb through ball from midfield.
Aluka completed the scoring in the 73rd minute with another spectacular effort, sending a long-range free-kick towards goal that the Denden goalkeeper failed to handle.
The 3–0 victory gives the Super Queens three points and an early advantage at the top of CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Qualifiers Group A.
With Rayon Sports and Mazunzo FC sharing the points in a 0–0 draw, Yei Joint Stars now lead the group as they continue their pursuit of qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League.
