Author: FSL News

* Established in 2014 © 2021 FSL MediaFootball Sierra Leone - all you need to know about the game in Sierra Leone and Sierra Leonean footballers at home and abroad.Founded by Alie Ahmed Bittar in 2014, Bittar is one of the leading journalists from Sierra Leone with over 25 years covering football.The award-winning website also covers football from across the continent.We aim to continue pursuing up-to-date reports for our readers in Sierra Leone and across the globe.FSL Media is always informative, accurate and consistent. Make Football Sierra Leone Your daily news feed.Follow our social media pages on Twitter @football_sierra, Instagram, Linkedin and Facebook. Permission to use our content is granted subject to crediting our website as the source.Contact: Managing Editor Alie Ahmed Bittar - Email: bittar@footballsierraleone.net - Tel: +44 (0) 7861141119
Nicolas Jackson nets brace for Senegal as DRC beat Benin in Group D
by FSL News

Nicolas Jackson nets brace for Senegal as DRC beat Benin in Group D

DR Congo and Senegal both secured victories in their opening matches of Group D at the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday.

Russian club Spartak Moscow’s striker Theo Bongonda scored the only goal for DR Congo as they defeated Benin in their African Cup of Nations Group D opener at the Al Medina Stadium on Tuesday.

Théo Bongonda’s goal helped the Democratic Republic of Congo to a 1-0 victory over Benin in their opening game of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

The Leopards demonstrated strong performance and early dominance, capitalising on a defensive error to secure the lead in the 16th minute.

Despite Benin’s efforts to counterattack and disrupt DR Congo’s rhythm, they struggled to create clear chances against a solid Congolese defence.

DR Congo managed to maintain their lead and secure a clean sheet, earning maximum points.

Elsewhere, Senegal defeated Botswana 3-0 in the second game in Group D with a brace from Nicolas Jackson in the 39th and 59th minutes, respectively.

Their third goal came through Cherif Ndiaye in the 90th minute to wrap a brilliant opening victory for the Lions of Teranga as they top Group D.

Jackson was named the TotalEnergies Man of the Match for their match against Botswana.

On Saturday, December 27, they’ll lock horns with the DRC Leopards whilst Botswana battles Benin.

Sullay Kaikai helps Cambridge win over Accrington Stanley
by FSL News

Sullay Kaikai helps Cambridge win over Accrington Stanley

The Sierra Leone International was on target as Cambridge defeated Accrington Stanley to enter the League Two play-off positions and increased their unbeaten streak to 11 matches across all competitions.

The home side generated the fewest chances in the first half, with Louis Appere sending a header well off target following a cross from Liam Bennett after 12 minutes.  

An Adam Mayor corner nearly went directly in, but was punched away by Ollie Wright, before the U’s opened the scoring in the fifth minute of stoppage time.  

Sullay Kaikai had the opportunity to deliver a pass across the goal, which found unmarked defender James Gibbons, who struck it home past Wright.  

Ten minutes after the break, James Brophy set Kaikai free on the left, but Wright parried his shot away; however, Kaikai made it 2-0 on the hour when he headed in Mayor’s cross from close range.  

Accrington posed almost no threat, with their best chances occurring 17 minutes from the end as Conor Grant’s free-kick was deflected wide, followed by a powerful shot from Dan Martin that was blocked.  

Cambridge arrives at Christmas with only one home loss in 15 matches this season.

CAF unveil new African Nations League
by FSL News

CAF unveil new African Nations League

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced reforms to the international football calendar, introducing an annual African Nations League and confirming that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be held every four years starting in 2028.

The newly established African Nations League will take place each year during the international windows of September, October, and November.

This competition will be organized regionally, dividing the continent into different zones to enable national teams to compete more frequently, all while minimizing travel burdens and logistical expenses.

CAF believes that the Nations League will inject more structure and competitiveness into African international football, replacing a substantial portion of low-key friendly matches with engaging, meaningful encounters.

This format is also set to provide consistent playing opportunities for teams outside major tournaments, thereby raising standards and fostering greater engagement at all levels.

These reforms reflect CAF’s determination to modernise the governance and competition structures of African football, with the overarching goal of strengthening national teams, enhancing player welfare, and boosting the global appeal of the African game.

Zambia Call off AFCON Friendly Against Ivory Coast
by FSL News

Zambia Call off Ivory Coast Friendly ahead of AFCON

After a disappointing 2-0 loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia has opted to cancel their scheduled friendly match against Ivory Coast on Thursday.

Under the guidance of Coach Moses Sichone, the team is currently in Murcia, Spain, putting the finishing touches on their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco.

The lead-up to the tournament has been challenging for the 2012 African champions. Machacha Shapande, General Secretary of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), confirmed the cancellation of a friendly match, citing time constraints that required adjustments for player recovery after the recent defeat to the DRC, as it fell within a crucial five-day window before the AFCON finals.

With three consecutive friendlies without a victory, including matches against South Africa and Angola, there’s growing concern back home.

When is Zambia concluding their training camp in Spain? Sichone and his squad will wrap up their week-long camp on Friday. Most players have reported to training, except for Italy-based Lameck Banda and Obino Chisala, who will head directly to Morocco.

Zambia will face tough competition in Group A, alongside Morocco, Mali, and Comoros. The team will kick off their AFCON journey against Mali on Monday, followed by a match against Comoros the following Thursday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading Gabon to 2025 AFCON in Morocco
by FSL News

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading Gabon to 2025 AFCON in Morocco

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will lead Gabon at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after coach Thierry Mouyouma named a refreshed 28-man squad.

The Panthers face a tough group with Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and Mozambique, starting their campaign on December 24 in Agadir.

Aubameyang, coming off a strong season with Olympique Marseille, energises a fanbase eager for a deep run after missing the 2023 edition. Alongside him are experienced players like Denis Bouanga, Bruno Ecuele Manga, Mario Lemina, and Jacques Ekomié.

Notable inclusions include Malick Evouna, back after a long absence, and Bordeaux winger Royce Openda, who debuted last month. Jim Allevinah and Shavy Babicka also return from injury, adding depth.

Gabon’s matches include a crucial opener against Cameroon and games against Mozambique and defending champions Côte d’Ivoire. Since not advancing past the quarter-finals since 2012, Mouyouma aims for a blend of experience and youth to challenge expectations.

Gabon’s final 28-man squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Mbaba Loyce Marius, Ngoubi Demba Anse and Bekale Junior

Defenders: Oyono Antony, Oyono Jérémy, Obiang Johann, Ekomie Jacques, Appindangoye A, Ecuele Manga Bruno, Moucketou Alex, Kila Onfia Mick, Do Marcolino Jonathan and Mboula Uriel-Michel

Midfielders: Mario Lemina, Nze Samake, Kanga Guelor, Bocoum Eric, Poko B. André, Loufilou Ruben and Ndong Ibrahim

Forwards: Shavy Babicka, Avelrant Teddy, Denis Bouanga, Essang-Matou Edlin, Malick Evouna, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Royce Openda and Jim Allevinah

Burkina Faso confirm 25-man final list for ACON 2025
by FSL News

Burkina Faso confirm 25-man final list for AFCON 2025

Burkina Faso coach Brama Traoré has unveiled his 25-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, featuring a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers.

The Stallions, placed in Group E with Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan, aim to build on recent strong performances.

The squad includes a solid mix of European-based professionals and domestic talents, with key players such as goalkeepers Hervé Koffi, Kilian Nikiema, and Sofiane Farid Ouédraogo providing reliability.

The defence is anchored by Nasser Yacouba Djiga, Edmond Tapsoba, and Adamo Nagalo, while the midfield showcases talent like Ibrahim Blati Touré and Cédric Badolo.

In attack, Bertrand Traoré and Dango Ouattara bring Premier League experience, complemented by Lassina Traoré, who leads the line. Traoré emphasises a balance of stability and ambition, equipping Burkina Faso to compete effectively in the tournament.

Burkina Faso’s 25-man squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Hervé Koffi (Angers), Kilian Nikiema (ADO Den Haag), Sofiane Farid Ouédraogo (Al Hilal SC)

Defenders: Nasser Yacouba Djiga (Rangers), Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen), Issoufou Dayo (Umm Salal), Adamo Nagalo (PSV Eindhoven), Steeve Yago (Aris Limassol), Issa Kaboré (Wrexham), Arsène Kouassi (Lorient), Abdoul Rachid Ayindé (Gent)

Midfielders: Ibrahim Blati Touré (Pyramids), Cédric Badolo (Spartak Trnava), Saïdou Simporé (National Bank), Mohamed Zougrana (MC Alger), Gustavo Sangaré (Noah), Stéphane Aziz Ki (Wydad Casablanca), Ismahila Ouédraogo (OB Odense)

Forwards: Bertrand Traoré (Sunderland), Dango Ouattara (Brentford), Ousseni Bouda (San Jose Earthquakes), Pierre Landry Kaboré (Hearts), Georgi Minoungou (Seattle Sounders), Cyriaque Iré (Freiburg), Lassina Traoré (Shakhtar Donetsk)

Sierra Leone midfielder Abu Dumbuya part ways with Maltese outfit
by FSL News

Sierra Leone midfielder Abu Dumbuya part ways with Maltese outfit

Zabbar St. Patrick has officially announced the departure of Sierra Leone midfielder Abu “Diaby” Dumbuya after a brief spell in Malta.

Dumbuya joined the Maltese club in August and, despite his short time with the team, made a strong impression with his dedication and professionalism.

The club expressed gratitude for his contributions and wished him all the best in his future endeavours.

In the 2023–2024 season, Dumbuya made a notable move to join Gençlik Gücü, a club in the KTFF Süper Lig in Northern Cyprus.

On January 3, 2025, he signed with AC Oulu, a team in the Finnish Veikkausliiga, for the upcoming season. However, he left the club at the beginning of July.

Benin's coach Gernot Rohr names 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025
by FSL News

Benin’s coach Gernot Rohr names 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025

Benin's coach, Gernot Rohr, has announced a provisional 30-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, set to start on December 21 in Morocco. The final squad will be trimmed to 28 players.

A training camp will take place in Ben Slimane, Morocco, starting December 10, where Rohr will assess players’ fitness and form. He initially selected 50 players but narrowed it down due to injuries and suspensions, now including centre-back Charlemagne Azongnitodé, making his first call-up after a strong season with AC Oulu in Finland.

Key players like Steve Mounié, who has recovered from injury, will lead the attack, while Rodolfo Aloko returns after regaining fitness. Other retained players include Santos Felipe, Adam Akimey, and Mariano Ahouangbo.

Benin will face Senegal in their final group stage match on December 30, with Rohr aiming to have at least 26 or 27 fit players, given five suspensions for their opening match. This extended squad is crucial for preparation against unforeseen challenges.

The camp will help determine the final squad, with Mounié, Olivier Verdon, and Yohan Roche providing experience in a bid to enhance the team’s performance in a tough Group D.

Benin’s 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Dandjinou Marcel, Allagbé Saturnin, Obassa Serge

Defenders: Attidjikou Samadou, Azongnitodé Charlemagne, Fassinou Rodrigue, Kiki David, Moumini Rachid, Ouorou Tamimou, Yohan Roche, Tijani Mohamed, Verdon Olivier

Midfielders: Ahlinvi Mattéo, Ahouangbo Mariano, Ahoudo Gislain, D’Almeida Sessi, Dokou Dodo, Hassane Imourane, Kossi Rodrigue

Forwards: Akimey Adam, Aloko Rodolfo, Amoussou Romaric, Dossou Jodel, Hountondji Andreas, Mounié Steve, Olaïtan Junior, Rachidou Razack, Santos Felipe, Tessilimi Olatoundji, Tosin Aiyegun

Debutants Nairobi United fell to a second defeat in CAF Confederation Cup
by FSL News

Debutants Nairobi United fell to a second defeat in the CAF Confederation Cup

Nairobi United suffered their second consecutive defeat in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, losing 1–0 to DR Congo’s AS Maniema at Kasarani, who remain at the top of Group B.

The only goal of the match was scored in the 67th minute by Jaency Mboma Kinda, who converted a low cross from Chadoma Ozome at the near post. This rare moment of clarity in a cautious game ensured Maniema’s strong defensive record in the group remained intact.

Before the goal, scoring chances were limited, but Maniema gained momentum after halftime with a double substitution that energised their midfield and right flank.

Nairobi responded with three substitutions in the 69th minute, but the Congolese side managed the game’s final moments well. Nairobi’s frustration showed when Kevin Otiende received a yellow card in the 71st minute, followed by Mboma Kinda being cautioned in the 80th. Maniema also made a late substitution and held on with disciplined defending.

This victory puts Maniema on six points from two matches, tied with Wydad AC at the top of the standings on goal difference (Wydad 4:0, Maniema 3:0). Nairobi remains at the bottom, without any points or goals, while Azam is in third place.

Wydad record strong start in CAF Confederation Cup
by FSL News

Wydad record strong start in CAF Confederation Cup

Wydad Casablanca, former African champions, started their campaign strongly by beating debutants Nairobi United 3–0 in Casablanca in their Group B CAF Confederation Cup group stage opener.

Ayoub Boucheta, Mohamed Bouchouari, and Mohamed Rayhi scored the goals for Wydad.

AS Maniema Union also earned three points with a 2–0 win over Azam FC in Kinshasa. Christian Panzi scored first, and substitute Chadoma Ozome added a second goal late in the game.

In Group C, CR Belouizdad from Algeria won 2–0 against Singida Black Stars in Algiers. Goals from Belhocini and Benguit put them at the top of Group C on goal difference.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch needed stoppage time to beat AS Otoho 1–0, with Angelo Cupido scoring in the 90+3 minute for a thrilling home victory.

Matchday 1 Results – Group B
• Wydad 3–0 Nairobi United
• Maniema 2–0 Azam

Matchday 1 Results – Group C
• CR Belouizdad 2–0 Singida Black Stars
• Stellenbosch 1–0 Otoho d’Oyo