World Cup (Q): James Yor says South Sudan facing critical moment against Togo

South Sudan national team acting coach Simon James Yor has expressed a robust commitment to enhancing the team’s performance as they prepare for their final fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Togo on Monday.

Following a disappointing outing against Senegal, Yor emphasised the need for strategic adjustments and a unified effort to secure three crucial points in this upcoming encounter. They will host Togo at Juba International Stadium, a few days after suffering a 5-0 defeat against Senegal at the same venue.

The defeat against the Lions of Teranga, forced South Sudan Football Federation to suspend coach Nicolas Dupuis from his duties for a period of fifteen (15) days for breaching his contractual obligations and violating Article N (3) of the coach professional contract, and went further to Yor to an acting capacity.

Yor outlines plans for changes to starting line-up

Yor acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in the previous match, stating, but promised a better showing against Togo in front of their fans.

“We made mistakes that cost us dearly. However, we are focused on learning from those errors and adapting our approach,” he told the media ahead of the game.

He outlined plans for changes to the starting line-up, aimed at maximizing the team’s strengths and addressing specific weaknesses that were evident against Senegal.

He concluded: “The importance of victory in this match cannot be overstated, as Bright Star seeks to regain momentum. This is a critical moment for us.”

South Sudan are currently sitting last in Group B with four points from nine matches.

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