By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan
JUBA, South Sudan – Future Stars Football Academy U-17 fought back from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw against Kush Academy in their opening Group B match of the 4th Edition of the Late Mubarak Wol Tournament at Zahra Playground on Monday.
The two sides played out an evenly balanced first half, with both teams creating chances but failing to find a breakthrough before the interval.
Kush Academy broke the deadlock in the 57th minute after Future Stars centre-back Kimbo Emmanuel inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear the danger.
Despite the setback, Future Stars responded with determination and composure. Coach Jadallah Peter's side found their equaliser 10 minutes later when Michael Loro unleashed a brilliant long-range strike that curled into the bottom-left corner, giving the Kush goalkeeper no chance.
Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could convert their opportunities as the match ended all square.
The result leaves Future Stars with one point after the opening round of Group B fixtures.
Dove Soccer Academy top the group with three points following a 1-0 win over Al Amal U-17, while Kush Academy also sit on one point. Al Garagir U-17 and Al Amal U-17 are yet to register a point.
Future Stars will now shift their attention to their second Group B fixture against Dove Soccer Academy on 17 July, where they will be aiming to secure their first victory of the tournament.
