Category: International, National Sport News Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone Sports, football, players abroad, International and African news website is passionately on all topics of National and International news, identifying our soccer stars.

Female candidates steps up as SLFA election intensifies
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Female candidate steps up as SLFA election intensifies

The list of contenders for the Sierra Leone Football Association presidential race continues to grow, among them a female aspirant hoping to become the second woman to head the body.

Aminata Bangura has announced her bid to succeed the incumbent Thomas Daddy Brima, who is running for a second term when the election is held in August 2025.

Also in the race are two serving football club chairman, Bo Rangers’ Babadi Kamara, the current SLFA president; Thomas Daddy Brima; and Umar Bah of Real Republicans and the present manager of the home-based Leone Stars.

Incumbent president Thomas Daddy Brima, who has already completed his first four years in office, is set to face off against his rivals for this sought-after position.

While Babadi Kamara has been widely touted as the frontrunner, Aminata Bangura is challenging that narrative, with many believing she could spring a surprise in the upcoming election on August 2, 2025.

Although the SLFA and the electoral board have yet to officially announce the list of candidates, this source has been closely following the nomination process.

Four years ago, Thomas Daddy Brima won the presidency by defeating Sadick Deen-Nyarkoh with a close vote of 31 to 26, marking the first SLFA elections in eight years and succeeding former FIFA executive member Isha Johansen.

Ex-Sierra Leone defender earns UEFA A Coaching License
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Sierra Leone defender Steven Caulker earns UEFA A Coaching License

Former Sierra Leone defender Steven Caulker has taken a notable step forward in his coaching career by earning a UEFA A Coaching License.

The ex-Liverpool and Tottenham player, who captained the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone before International retirement, successfully earned his UEFA A Coaching License eighteen months after securing his B License.

Having completed his UEFA A badge with the English FA, Caulker is now focused on his coaching journey. He expressed his excitement about applying his knowledge on the football field.

“I am really proud to announce that I have obtained my UEFA A Coaching License. It has been a great 12 months of learning with an excellent group of individuals. Now, I am even more excited to begin my coaching journey and put all my learning into practice,” he stated.

Caulker, who played a key role for Sierra Leone during the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon, is transitioning from his playing career to coaching. He believes this path is the future for him and aspires to become a manager someday, with a desire to coach the Sierra Leone national team and promote an attractive style of football among young Sierra Leonean players.

The UEFA A License is the most advanced practical coaching certification available, building upon the technical and tactical knowledge covered in the UEFA B License.

This certification emphasises the development of individual players within units, as well as enhancing understanding of modern game trends, strategies, tactics, systems of play, and the principles of the England DNA.

Sierra Leone's Aminata Fullah to officiate at the Women's AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone’s Aminata Fullah to officiate at Women’s AFCON

Sierra Leone’s top female referee, Aminata Fullah, has been selected by CAF to officiate at the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from July 5 to July 26, 2025.

She becomes the first referee from Sierra Leone to officiate at an AFCON tournament, showcasing her exceptional skills and dedication.

This is a significant achievement for both Aminata and Sierra Leonean football. It shows her years of hard work, discipline, and consistent performance.

Aminata Fullah has also become the first-ever Elite A Referee in Sierra Leone’s history. This is a major milestone that will inspire current and future referees in the country.

Her success highlights the growing recognition of Sierra Leonean referees in Africa and beyond. Aminata’s achievement proves that with hard work and support, our officials can succeed at the highest levels of international football.

https://twitter.com/football_sierra/status/1932693265016390088 

Star Sport Academy's Karim lauds team's effort after win over Blackpool
by FSL News

Star Sport Academy’s Karim lauds team’s effort after win over Blackpool

After securing their first victory in the second phase, Star Sport Academy’s head coach, Amidu Karim, praised his team for demonstrating remarkable resilience in their 3-0 win at the SLFA playing ground.

For head coach Amidu Kamrim, who has recently taken over the squad, this 3-0 triumph is especially significant as it marks his first victory in charge. “We are delighted with the effort everyone put in and excited about the future!” he said.

Coach Amidu Karim expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thanks to the Almighty for this first victory. I hope the boys continue to work hard for the upcoming matches.

I want them to stay focused in future games. Today, they showcased an impressive performance. This win underscores our dedication. Overall, the squad displayed outstanding belief and composure.”

Yankuba J. Tarawally, chairman of the club, also congratulated the team on their first triumph of the Leone Rock Premier League second round, following their victory.

“Congratulations to the players, technical team, and management for such a wonderful and tremendous victory. We pray that the team will continue to show the same resilience in the coming fixtures,” he added.

President Julius Maada Bio joins Sierra Queens Women's Cup celebrations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

President Julius Maada Bio joins Sierra Queens Women’s Cup celebrations

President Maada Bio, the first gentleman of Sierra Leone, expressed his joy following Sierra Queens’ victory in Mauritania.

They triumphed over a strong Senegalese side with a score of 1-0, securing their first-ever Women’s title in history. The president was thrilled with this achievement.

“In an electrifying moment at the WAFU A Women’s Cup 2025 in Mauritania, our Queens have truly made history by clinching Sierra Leone’s very first international trophy in women’s football! We are bursting with pride! This monumental achievement is a triumph for every single team member and for all of Sierra Leone.

This incredible victory reignites my passion for football and strengthens my dedication to empowering women, as I wholeheartedly believe in their remarkable potential. Let’s celebrate this win and look forward to even greater strides ahead,” he vehemently expressed.

This monumental achievement is a triumph for every single team member and for all of Sierra Leone.
This monumental achievement is a triumph for every single team member and for all of Sierra Leone.
SLFA's President Brima hails Sierra Queens' achievement in Mauritania
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

SLFA’s President Brima hails Sierra Queens’ achievement in Mauritania

After the Sierra Queens won the Women’s Cup, beating Senegal 1-0 at the Olympic Stadium in Nouakchott, Sierra Leone Football Association President Thomas Daddy Brima hailed the notable development achieved.

For the first time in history, Sierra Leone’s National Senior Women’s Team, Sierra Queens, made history by winning their first-ever WAFU A Women’s Championship title.

The nation celebrated as Captain Salamatu Kamara scored the winning penalty in the 68th minute, giving Sierra Leone an impressive victory over Senegal. Her calmness under pressure made a significant impact, and she secured her place in Sierra Leonean football history.

While Kamara won the match, goalkeeper Hannah Juana stood out as the tournament’s star. Juana had another outstanding performance, earning her fourth Woman of the Match award. This achievement also gave her the title of Best Player of the Tournament, a rare honour for a goalkeeper in Africa.

“History has been made for our football ecosystem. This is the first time our women’s senior team has won an international trophy — a massive achievement,” acknowledged the SLFA president.

“Congratulations to everyone for believing in the dream of making Sierra Leone football an environment for all. We not only won as champions, but we also took home the awards for best player, best goalkeeper, and player of the match. We made a significant statement to the West African region: we are champions.”

For the first time in history, Sierra Leone's National Senior Women's Team, Sierra Queens, made history by winning their first-ever WAFU A Women’s Championship title.
For the first time in history, Sierra Leone's National Senior Women's Team, Sierra Queens, made history by winning their first-ever WAFU A Women’s Championship title.
Sierra Leone's Sierra Queens book Women's Cup semis spot in Mauritania
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Sierra Queens book Women’s Cup semis spot in Mauritania

The Sierra Queens of Sierra Leone have advanced to the semi-finals of the ongoing WAFU A Women’s tournament in Mauritania, after securing a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Senegal on Monday evening at the Cheikha Boidiya Stadium.

Having previously defeated Guinea 3-1, they revitalized their chances of qualifying for the next round. The crucial point earned on Monday was significant, especially as Guinea defeated The Gambia 4-3.

Sierra Leone goalkeeper Hannah Juana was once again awarded Woman of the Match for her outstanding performance.

After suffering a 3-0 defeat to Gambia in their opening match, Sierra Leone turned their fortunes around with this impressive victory at the Cheikha Ould Boïdiya Stadium in Nouakchott, Mauritania.

Coach Malik Hassan Mansaray praised his team for their resilient and composure against a dominate Senegal side.

In Group A, Mauritania defeated Guinea-Bissau 2-0 as Liberia drew 1-1 against Mali and as a result, Liberia progressed to the semi-finals alongside Mali, who topped Group A on seven points, Liberia 5 and Mauritania four points in third.

In Group B, Senegal won the group with seven points, Sierra Leone on four, Guinea and the Gambia on three each.

In Group B, Senegal won the group with seven pooints, Sierra Leone on four, Guinea and the Gambia on three each.
In Group B, Senegal won the group with seven points, Sierra Leone on four, Guinea and the Gambia on three each.
The Sierra Queens of Sierra Leone reached the semi-finals of the WAFU A Women’s tournament in Mauritania after a tough 1-1 draw with Senegal.
The Sierra Queens of Sierra Leone reached the semi-finals of the WAFU A Women’s tournament in Mauritania after a tough 1-1 draw with Senegal.
Sierra Leone's Sierra Queens register first win in Mauritania Womens Cup
by @football_sierra

Sierra Leone’s Sierra Queens register first win in Mauritania Women’s Cup

Sierra Queens celebrated their first victory in the ongoing WAFU A Women’s tournament, Group B, in Mauritania by defeating neighboring Guinea 3-1 in their second match.

This win has revitalized their chances of qualifying for the next round. Goalkeeper Hannah Juana was awarded the Woman of the Match for her outstanding performance.

Coach Malik Hassan Mansary said the team was calm ahead of their second match. After losing their first, they never wanted to lose the second, so there were a lot of technical decisions made to improve their results.

After suffering a 3-0 defeat to Gambia in their opening match, Sierra Leone turned their fortunes around with this impressive victory at the Cheikha Ould Boïdiya Stadium in Nouakchott, Mauritania.

They will play Senegal next on Monday in another important match to help them reach the knockout stages.

In Group A, Liberia and Mauritania ended their match in a 1-1 draw. on Saturday as Mali downed Guinea-Bissau 4-1.

In Group B, Senegal won their second game, thrashing The Gambia 6-0. They had previously won 2-1 against Guinea.

Guinea has lost two matches and is likely to be eliminated after their final group game against The Gambia on Monday.

Goalkeeper Hannah Juana was awarded the Woman of the Match for her outstanding performance.
Goalkeeper Hannah Juana was awarded the Woman of the Match for her outstanding performance.
SLFA President Brima, VP 1 Johnson attend 75th FIFA Congress alongside global leaders
by Football Sierra Leone

SLFA President Brima, VP 1 Johnson attend 75th FIFA Congress alongside global leaders

The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Thomas Daddy Brima, is currently in Asunción, Paraguay, attending the 75th FIFA Congress. He is joined by Vice President Harold Nat-Johnson and Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh.

This congress marks a significant moment in global football, as it celebrates FIFA’s 75th anniversary and welcomes leaders from all 211 member associations. It is the highest decision-making body in world football and sets the direction for the future of the game.

SLFA at 75th FIFA Congress: Strengthening Global Football Ties

The SLFA delegation is using the opportunity to engage with international football executives, explore partnerships, and advocate for football development in Sierra Leone. Their presence reaffirms the association’s commitment to good governance, collaboration, and investment in the local game.

“I am excited to have participated in the 75th FIFA Congress with my Vice President Harold Nat-Johnson and Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh,” said President Brima.

“This event focuses on key discussions shaping the future of football. We thank FIFA for its continued support and reaffirm SLFA’s dedication to being a respected voice in global football.”

Highlights from the 75th FIFA Congress

One major announcement was the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will take place in Miami, beginning on June 14. The tournament will feature 32 clubs and offer a prize pool of USD 1 billion, with an additional solidarity fund for non-participating teams. 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that all revenue will be reinvested into football to benefit clubs worldwide. He thanked global stakeholders for their contribution to making this event possible. The participation of the SLFA at 75th FIFA Congress marks a major step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s voice and presence in global football discussions.

The congress also discussed the ongoing implementation of the Global Stand Against Racism, which was approved during the previous FIFA Congress.

By attending this global gathering, SLFA leaders are ensuring Sierra Leone continues to grow within the international football community—both on and off the pitch.

The FIFA Congress is the top decision-making body for world football, bringing together representatives from all 211 member associations.
The FIFA Congress is the top decision-making body for world football, bringing together representatives from all 211 member associations.
Coach Kamara believes Sierra Leone earn respect despite quarter-final exit
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Coach Kamara believes Sierra Leone earn respect despite quarter-final exit

Sierra Leone’s remarkable first appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 concluded in disappointment as they were edged out 1-0 by Morocco following extra time in the quarter-finals.

A late own goal by defender Amara Keita dashed Sierra Leone’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals and qualifying for the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Despite the loss, head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara praised his team’s tenacity, stating, “We wanted to hold Morocco and take the game to penalties. But I am extremely proud of the boys—they showed character and the hearts of warriors.”

In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

Morocco’s coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, praised Sierra Leone, calling them “one of the hardest opponents we faced.” He noted, “They were resilient, organized, and showed they belong at this level.”

As Morocco advanced to the semi-finals, Sierra Leone left with dignity. Kamara stated, “This is just the beginning; it marks the inception of something hopeful. The boys have motivated a nation while also gaining respect within African football.”

In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.