10/08/2025
Yirol West goalkeeper Madeng KJ retires from community football over ‘humiliation’
Yirol West goalkeeper Madeng Abilieny Acinkoc, popularly known as KJ, has announced his retirement from community football, citing years of humiliation and safety concerns.
In a statement, KJ said he had faced repeated incidents, including being threatened at gunpoint, accused of using “juju,” and having his personal belongings destroyed during matches. He recalled incidents in the Bahr el Ghazal Counties League where he was assaulted or intimidated by fans and players from rival counties.
KJ said his family advised him to quit after the latest incident in the Lakes State Peace Tournament between Yirol West and Yirol East, which he claims nearly sparked conflict between the two communities.
“No action was taken by Yirol West team officials against those who defamed or threatened me,” he said, adding that his reputation has been tarnished by local and international media.
The veteran goalkeeper, who has played for teams including Yirol United, Union FC, Zalan FC, and Wanjuma FC, described his talent as “genetic in the family” and vowed to pursue legal action against his defamers.
