With the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in sight, the South Sudanese Football Association has mutually agreed to terminate the contract of French coach Nicolas Dupuis. His interim role will be filled by Cameroonian Ashu Cyprian Besong.
I must congratulate all the players, as they were very focused and connected during the matches.
Nicolas Dupuis, Former South Sudan national team coach
French coach Nicolas Dupuis is leaving the South Sudanese national football team. On March 12, 2026, the federation and the coach mutually agreed to terminate their contract, ending two years of collaboration. This unexpected news comes two weeks before South Sudan’s double-header against Djibouti in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
We are here to officially announce that the Federation has reached an agreement to part ways with the head coach of the senior men’s team, Nicolas Dupuis. This decision was made by mutual agreement. » I am pleased to announce that the discussions regarding this transition took place with the utmost respect and that all amicable agreements have been successfully finalized.
Press Release, Football Federation
Having taken over as head coach of the South Sudanese national team in October 2023, Nicolas Dupuis set himself the objective of rebuilding the national team using players from the local league. Now at the end of his contract, his initial record, which includes a squad overhau
We wish to express our deep gratitude to Coach Dupuis for his service over the past two years. Under his leadership, we have witnessed a significant transformation. Increased professionalism: his approach has instilled a new level of discipline within the team. » Unprecedented competitiveness: he enabled the team to achieve previously unattainable goals, transforming it into a competitive force that brought pride to the nation.
Press Release, Football Federation
Regarding the appointment of a permanent coach, the statement specifies that the long-term future of the head coach position for the senior men’s team will be formally discussed and decided by the Executive Committee at its next regular meeting. For the time being, the interim role for the matches against Djibouti on March 26 and 29 is being filled by Cameroonian Ashu Cyprian Besong.l, can be summarized as 6 matches played: 1 win, 2 draws, and 3 losses, notably in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
