By Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan | 3rd Aug 2026
KAMPALA - El Merriekh SC Bentiu will continue their pre-season preparations with an international friendly against Uganda Premier League outfit Maroons FC on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in Uganda.
The encounter forms part of both clubs' build-up to the 2026/27 domestic campaign, while also serving as a crucial test for El Merriekh ahead of their return to the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds.
The South Sudan Premier League and South Sudan Cup champions are currently holding a pre-season training camp in Uganda, where they have impressed with a series of positive results under newly appointed head coach Loboko Claude.
El Merriekh head into the match in excellent form, having won all three of their pre-season friendlies. They opened with 5-0 crusing of Kibuli United, before the 2-1 victory over UPPC. They then came from behind to defeat Kibuli Hearts United 2-1, extending their unbeaten run.
Tuesday's fixture at the Hamz Stadium at 2:00 PM is expected to provide a tougher challenge against an experienced Maroons side led by head coach Umar Abdallah Loi, a familiar figure in South Sudanese football.
Loi made history as the first coach to win the South Sudan Cup following the country's independence, guiding Nasir FC to the title. His knowledge of South Sudan's football landscape adds another layer of intrigue to the contest.
On the opposite bench, Loboko Claude has enjoyed an impressive start since taking charge of El Merriekh in June following a successful spell with Jamus SC Juba. The Congolese tactician has quickly stamped his authority on the Bentiu-based club, overseeing three consecutive pre-season victories as he prepares the team for the challenges ahead.
El Merriekh began their pre-season programme on July 8, with the club aiming to defend their domestic titles while making a strong impression in continental competition when the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds get underway later this year.
