Juba | El-Merriekh SC-Bentiu launched their 2025–2026 South Sudan Premier League campaign in spectacular fashion, thrashing Lion Hunters FC 10–1 in one of the most lopsided scorelines in the competition’s recent history. The Bentiu giants wasted no time asserting dominance. Striker P. Keer broke the deadlock in the 13th minute before Malian forward M. Cheick doubled the advantage just five minutes later. G. Masha added a brace with goals in the 25th and 35th minutes, while N. Victor struck in the 27th and again in the 55th, putting the result beyond doubt before the hour mark.
Lion Hunters briefly rallied when A. Billy curled home a consolation in the 40th minute, but it did little to slow El-Merriekh’s charge. Cheick completed his double in the 65th, A. Samuel added another in the 69th, and midfielder M. Eric found the net in the 73rd. Substitute C. Peter capped the rout with a stoppage-time strike in the 93rd minute.
“This was a statement performance,” said El-Merriekh’s head coach afterwards. “The players showed intensity, discipline, and hunger. If we maintain this level, we will be a serious contender for the title.”
The emphatic victory puts El-Merriekh top of the early table with a formidable goal difference, sending a clear warning to rivals. Lion Hunters, meanwhile, face a daunting challenge to recover from such a heavy opening defeat. The South Sudan Premier League, proudly sponsored by MTN South Sudan, continues this weekend with fixtures across Juba, Wau, and Malakal.
