Month: April 2026

Alie Conteh nets winner in Inter Turku's win over IFK Mariehamn
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Alie Conteh nets winner in Inter Turku’s win over IFK Mariehamn

Sierra Leone’s Alie Conteh scored the only goal and a vital one as Inter Turku defeated IFK Mariehamn 1-0 on Saturday in the Finnish Veikkausliiga.

Inter played against IFK Mariehamn at Veritas Stadion on Saturday evening in windy and cold weather. The home team, which started the season without losing, showed a strong performance right from the beginning.

The first chance came in the 15th minute when Jean Botué, who played well, took a shot from inside the box, but IFK goalkeeper Kevin Lund saved it for a corner.

IFK had their only real chance in the 41st minute when Leo Andersson shot from outside the box towards the top corner, but Eetu Huuhtanen blocked it for a corner.

Before halftime, Inter almost scored when Johannes Yli-Kokko had a shot that hit the post after a good cross from Jussi Niska. Loïc Essomba also had another shot, but the score stayed 0–0 at halftime.

In the second half, Inter passed the ball well, and pressure on IFK’s goal grew. In the 70th minute, Eeli Kiiskilä tried a shot from the edge of the penalty area, but Lund made another save.

In the 79th minute, Inter finally scored. Full-back Jussi Niska crossed from the left, and Alie Conteh headed the ball into the bottom corner from close range.

After the goal, Inter created several more chances, keeping the pressure on. Seth Saarinen had a good curled shot toward the back corner, and then Prosper Ahiabu tried a close-range shot from a low cross. However, no more goals were scored, and Inter won 1–0 with a strong performance in front of their home crowd.

Ex-Ivorian international Emmanuel Eboué speaks about a difficult family situation
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Emmanuel Eboué opens up about a difficult family situation

Former Arsenal and Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Eboue has opened up about the drastic turn his life took after his breakup with the mother of his three children.

During an appearance on the 5th House Podcast, the 42-year-old shared how legal issues ultimately left him financially devastated in England, the country where he enjoyed the peak of his professional career.

Eboué, who was a key player for the Gunners during the mid-2000s, revealed that the settlement led to him losing all his assets based in the UK. “I lost a lot. A lot. To be honest, I can’t disclose how much, but it was significant,” he stated, recalling his journey that began in the youth academy of ASEC Mimosas.

“I lost everything in my life while in England. I built my entire career there; I owned several properties, three houses, and a collection of cars. I lost them all, along with my money.” He reflected on his struggles, saying, “I was incredibly down.

Living in a place where the press knew my whereabouts made things even tougher. Each day, they were waiting outside, so I had to cover the windows with boxes, just to avoid being photographed. It really took a toll on me—I didn’t even have the appetite to eat.”

Eboué elaborated on how his downfall began: “My agent demanded €1 million, and I decided I’d rather stop playing football than give them that money. When I refused, my ex-agent reported me to FIFA, resulting in a one-year ban. To escape the spotlight, I moved back to Turkey, trying to keep my situation under wraps, and that’s when the divorce proceedings began.”

He began his European career with Belgium’s Beveren in 2002, but most notably, he spent the crucial years from 2005 to 2011 at Arsenal, making 214 appearances, including playing in the 2006 UEFA Champions League Final. Later, he joined Galatasaray, where he played consistently and clinched five domestic titles in Turkey.

Eboué made his international debut for the Ivory Coast in 2004, earning a total of 79 caps by 2013 and participating in five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and two World Cups.

Predominantly a right-back, he formed a solid defensive partnership with former teammate Kolo Touré for the Elephants. Eboué scored his first international goal in a 2-2 draw against Germany and was named in Sven-Göran Eriksson’s squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Hussein Mohamed suspended as Kenya Football Federation president
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Hussein Mohamed suspended as Kenya Football Federation president

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended its president, Hussein Mohamed, amid a major scandal that is shaking the country’s football community.

In a statement released on Friday, the federation announced that Mohamed has been temporarily removed from his position while an investigation into serious claims of governance and ethical breaches is underway.

The FKF emphasized that this decision was made to uphold the integrity of the organization and ensure a thorough and transparent investigation. While officials did not disclose the specifics of the allegations, sources within the federation suggest that the controversy involves financial irregularities and potential abuse of power, escalating scrutiny on FKF’s leadership in recent weeks.

This suspension marks a significant shift for Mohamed, a well-known figure in Kenyan football administration. His leadership has included efforts to stabilize the federation and rebuild trust among stakeholders after years of instability in the sport.

The FKF stated that an interim leadership structure would be put in place shortly to maintain continuity in operations, especially with ongoing domestic competitions and national team activities. The federation also reassured fans, sponsors, and international partners of its commitment to accountability and transparency.

“The federation is fully committed to working with all relevant authorities to uncover the facts,” the statement read. “Appropriate actions will be taken based on the investigation’s findings.”

Former Nigerian striker Michael Eneramo died during a match
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Former Nigerian striker Michael Eneramo died during a match

Former Nigerian striker Michael Eneramo has died after collapsing during a friendly match, likely from a cardiac arrest. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced he was 40 years old and fell just five minutes into the second half in Kaduna.

Eneramo played 10 times for the Super Eagles and had successful stints in clubs across Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Known for his strength and scoring ability, he was nicknamed Al Dababa (The Tank) by fans during his time at Esperance in Tunisia. Dr Mohammed Sanusi from the NFF called his death “devastating.”

Eneramo turned down offers from Tunisia to represent Nigeria, making his debut against Jamaica in 2009. He scored in a crucial match against Tunisia that helped Nigeria qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, although he was not selected for the tournament.

Sanusi hoped God would grant Eneramo eternal rest and comfort his loved ones. Eneramo joins other former African players, like Cameroon’s Marc-Vivien Foe and Ivorian Cheick Tiote, who have died from heart issues during games.

A 2009 study found black African athletes might face a higher risk of heart problems, leading Didier Drogba to call for mandatory medical check-ups for professional players.

Ghana unveils Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz ahead of World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana unveils Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz ahead of World Cup

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Ghana Football Association introduced Carlos Queiroz as the new head coach of Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, on April 23. He will lead the team in this year’s World Cup.

Carlos Queiroz, a Portuguese coach, spoke to the media about his role ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He shared his plans for the Black Stars and aims to make Ghana “a country of champions” as they prepare for the tournament.

Queiroz said this job is more than just winning games. He wants to change the culture, discipline, and identity of the team. He described it as a mission, not just a contract, and he aims for Ghana to excel in football and become true champions. He wants to build a strong and united team that can handle pressure on the world stage.

Queiroz has plenty of experience with World Cups. He helped South Africa qualify for the 2002 tournament and led Portugal to the Round of 16 in 2010.

He also managed Iran in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups. In addition, his work with Egypt, Japan, Qatar, and Oman shows he can stabilise and improve national teams.

Ghana will start its 2026 World Cup journey against Panama in Toronto on June 17. The team will then face tough games against England and Croatia in Group L. Queiroz plans to work with the players in the coming weeks to build teamwork, tactical skills, and mental toughness. His goal is to ensure that Ghana is not just participating in the World Cup but aiming to compete seriously for the title.

Sierra Leone U-17 Girls to face Benin in second phase of the Women's World Cup qualifiers
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U-17 Women’s to face Benin in second phase of the World Cup qualifiers

The Sierra Leone U-17 Women’s National Team is set to face Benin in May after they eliminated the Ivory Coast in the first leg of the preliminary matches.

In the first leg, the match ended in a 0-0 draw. In the return leg, the Sierra Leonean team demonstrated resilience and determination, winning 2-1 to qualify. As a result, they secured their spot in the second preliminary round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Elsewhere, the biggest surprise came from Benin, who lost 3–1 in the first match but won 4–0 against Burkina Faso in the second match. Romaine Gandonou scored all four goals.

Cameroon, Ghana, and Ethiopia all won by a score of 6–0, showing their strength. Zambia, Kenya, and Uganda also qualified easily. In a close match, Senegal beat Tunisia 2–1, and both Tanzania and Burundi moved on as well.

Next, the focus will shift to the second round, which runs from May 22 to May 31.

Sierra Leone v Benin in the second round of the qualifiers schedule

* First Leg: May 22nd, 23rd, or 24th

* Second Leg: May 28th, 29th, or 30th

Second-round fixtures – FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 qualifiers

  • Guinea vs Nigeria
  • Benin vs Sierra Leone
  • Senegal vs Cameroon
  • Liberia vs Ghana
  • Zambia vs DR Congo
  • Ethiopia vs Burundi
  • Tanzania vs South Africa
  • Kenya vs Uganda
SLFA Launches Global Search for Leone Stars Coach Amid Kallon Fallout
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone Launches Global Search for Head Coach Amid Kallon Fallout

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has opened a global recruitment process for a new head coach of the country’s senior men’s national team, days after the controversial dismissal of Mohamed Kallon. This move continues to spark public debate and raises the prospect of legal action.

In a vacancy notice issued on April 22, the federation invited “suitably qualified and experienced” candidates to apply, signalling urgency in filling the vacancy amid mounting scrutiny. Applicants are required to hold at least a CAF A Licence or equivalent, with preference for those possessing CAF Pro or UEFA Pro qualifications, alongside a proven record at national team or top-tier club level.

The successful candidate will be tasked with leading the team’s technical direction, overseeing player scouting both domestically and within the diaspora, and implementing modern tactical and performance-driven systems.

The role also includes aligning the senior team with youth development structures to strengthen long-term competitiveness. The recruitment drive, however, is unfolding against a potentially destabilising backdrop.

Kallon, a former national team captain widely credited with revitalising the Leone Stars, has described his dismissal in a recent local media interview as “abrupt, unfair and unjustified,” and is weighing possible legal redress.

Analysts warn that any legal challenge could carry financial and administrative implications for the SLFA, including potential compensation claims and complications in attracting a new coach amid concerns over governance stability.

Prolonged disputes could also invite scrutiny under international football regulations, potentially affecting the federation’s credibility. The SLFA has not publicly responded to the possibility of legal action, but its swift move to advertise the position underscores an effort to maintain continuity on the pitch.

Applications for the post close on May 12, 2026, as Sierra Leone seeks a new technical leader while an unresolved dispute threatens to shape the team’s trajectory off the field.

Sierra Leone Women Among Africa’s Lowest in Latest FIFA Rankings
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone women remain static at 151 in the latest FIFA rankings

Sierra Leone’s senior women’s national team have remained unchanged at 151st place in the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, retaining their 1,021.39 points from the previous update published in December 2025.

The West African side recorded no movement during the latest ranking cycle, which included 276 international matches worldwide.

Undoubtedly, Sierra Queens inactivity leaves them not only static globally but also positioned among the lowest-ranked teams within the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underlining limited participation in competitive fixtures.

At the top of the standings, Spain maintained first place despite a recent defeat, while England climbed to third following a victory over the leaders, moving ahead of Germany, which dropped to fourth.

The United States held second position, while Japan rose three places to fifth, marking the biggest gain within the top ten, while the Netherlands entered the top ten, displacing North Korea.

Outside the top tier, American Samoa registered the most significant rise, climbing 17 places to 120th after accumulating over 120 ranking points across recent fixtures.

The latest rankings also reflect structural shifts, with the British Virgin Islands dropping out after four years without international matches.

With qualifiers for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 ongoing globally, Sierra Leone’s absence from competitive action continues to limit opportunities for ranking improvement.

According to FIFA, their next Women’s World Ranking will be published on 16 June 2026.

Sierra Leone Women Among Africa’s Lowest in Latest FIFA Rankings
Sierra Leone Women Among Africa’s Lowest in Latest FIFA Rankings
Sierra Leone's Daniel Kanu pleased with Sky Bet League Two Young Player of the Season award
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Daniel Kanu pleased with Sky Bet League Two Young Player of the Season award

Sierra Leone international Daniel Kanu has been awarded the EA Sports FC Sky Bet League Two Young Player of the Season title due to his impressive loan spell at Walsall.

The 21-year-old academy graduate expressed his joy after receiving the accolade, following a remarkable season with the Saddlers, where he netted 15 goals and added two assists across 38 league appearances.

After accepting his award, Kanu shared with Sky Sports, “This season has been a great learning journey for me. I’ve faced a variety of teams, each bringing their own set of challenges.

It’s been an incredible experience—sometimes you rise to the occasion, and other times you struggle, but that’s the essence of football. I’m really thankful to everyone at Walsall and to Charlton for giving me this opportunity to go out on loan.”

Sierra Leone Mourns Football Stalwart Joseph Samba Keifala
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone Mourns Football Stalwart Joseph Samba Keifala

The passing of Joseph Samba Keifala has triggered a wave of tributes across Sierra Leone, with the nation mourning a prominent figure whose legacy bridged football administration and public service.

The deceased was a former Mayor of the Kenema City Council and a key stakeholder in the country’s football landscape, whose death was announced on Saturday, April 18, 2026, after a brief illness, family sources confirmed.

A longtime advocate for grassroots football, the late man popularly known as “J.S. Keifala” was closely associated with Kamboi Eagles, where he played a central role in nurturing young talent and strengthening community participation.

Over the years, the influence of the former Kenema City Mayor and football administrator helped shape football development in eastern Sierra Leone.

During his tenure as mayor, Keifala championed youth empowerment and urban development, frequently promoting sport as a tool for unity and social progress.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) described his death as “a profound loss to the football family,” while Kamboi Eagles hailed him as a “father figure and pillar” instrumental to the club’s growth.

Since his passing, tributes have continued to pour in from across the sporting community, with many remembering him as a unifying force who used football to inspire and uplift communities nationwide.

Close associates of the deceased say his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.