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
Sullay Kaikai's stunning first-half helps Cambridge win over Fleetwood

Sullay Kaikai’s first-half stunner helps Cambridge win over Fleetwood

Sullay Kaikai scored as Cambridge maintained their League Two play-off pursuit with an away win as Fleetwood's search for a first victory of the new year continued.

Kaikai scored a great goal in the first half, but Ethan Ennis equalized with a penalty in the second half. James Gibbons then secured the win for Cambridge at Highbury, making it 11 league games without a loss.

Louis Appere missed the first chance of the match, heading the ball over the crossbar for the visitors.

Kaikai, from Sierra Leone, scored his seventh goal of the season for Cambridge with a fantastic free-kick after James Brophy was fouled near the box.

Kaikai almost assisted another goal when he set up Appere, but Appere shot wide.

In the 60th minute, Ched Evans of the Cod Army saw his volley go over the bar. Jay Lynch prevented Kaikai from scoring again by rushing off his line.

Fifteen minutes from the end, Evans earned a penalty, and Ennis scored to make it 1-1.

But Gibbons scored the winning goal with a strong shot through a crowded goal area eight minutes later.

Amad Diallo on target as Côte d'Ivoire cruise past Burkina Faso

Amad Diallo on target as Côte d’Ivoire cruise past Burkina Faso

In-form Manchester United winger, Amad Diallo scored the Côte d'Ivoire opener as they secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Burkina Faso on Tuesday night in Marrakesh, advancing to the quarter-finals of the Morocco 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The defending champions continue their quest for back-to-back titles, with Amad Diallo playing a crucial role by scoring the opening goal and assisting the second.

The Ivorians dominated from the start, with Diallo and Yan Diomandé posing constant threats to the Burkinabè defence. Diallo capitalised on a defensive error to chip in the first goal in the 20th minute, followed by Diomandé’s accurate finish from Diallo’s cross twelve minutes later.

Burkina Faso nearly scored before halftime when Dango Ouattara hit the post. The Stallions started the second half strongly but could not break through a disciplined Ivorian defence. Ousmane Diomandé sealed the victory with a goal in the 87th minute.

Amad Diallo was named Man of the Match, praising the team’s chemistry and collective effort. Burkina Faso’s coach Brama Traoré expressed disappointment over missing key players, while Côte d’Ivoire’s Emerse Faé highlighted the team’s quick reactions when losing possession and the strength of the collective performance.

10-man Mali knock-out Tunisia in penalty shootout

10-man Mali advance after penalty shootout win over Tunisia

Mali defeated Tunisia in a penalty shootout 3-2 after a 1-1 draw in their Round of 16 match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite being reduced to ten men within the first thirty minutes.

The thrilling clash took place on Saturday at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco, with El Bilal Touré stepping up to convert the decisive penalty, securing a hard-fought victory for Les Aigles.

Both sides approached the match with caution, resulting in limited scoring opportunities. Early on, Mali’s chances took a hit when right back Woyo Coulibaly was shown a red card for a late challenge on Hannibal Mejbri, leaving his team in a precarious position.

Tunisia struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Malian side, lacking the attacking flair to capitalise on its opportunities. Despite their physical play, Tunisia missed several set pieces, while Mali threatened on the counter-attack.

In the 89th minute, Tunisia found inspiration when Elias Saad crossed to substitute Firas Chaouat, who scored with a flicked header, seemingly securing a quarterfinal spot. However, a late penalty for Mali, converted by Sinayoko, levelled the score and sent the match into extra time.

The deadlock continued through extra time, leading to a penalty shootout. Tunisia initially took the lead, but missed penalties from Bissouma and Abdi proved costly. Diarra’s save against Ben Romdhane opened the door for Touré, who scored the winning penalty for Mali.

Mali advances to face Senegal in the quarterfinals on January 9 in Tangier, following Senegal’s earlier win over Sudan.

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha

Bradford City, currently in pursuit of promotion from League One, is one of several clubs vying for the services of the 19-year-old player following the recent termination of his loan at FC Nürnberg at the start of December.

The player received multiple offers for his first senior loan but chose to join German side FC Nürnberg in the 2. Bundesliga, seeking higher competition. However, after not meeting the expectations of manager Miroslav Klose, he made only two appearances for their reserve team.

Crystal Palace is open to loaning him again for more senior experience, preferably within England, for his development. Walsall in League Two has expressed ongoing interest, and Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has scouted him during several matches.

The player is contracted with Crystal Palace until 2028, having made 29 appearances for the Under-21 team last season, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists.

The youngster is a versatile forward and was named Palace’s Under-21 Player of the Season, nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award.

Internationally, he has represented Sierra Leone three times and trained with Crystal Palace’s first team during their mid-season camp in Marbella last year.

Tunisia progress as Nigeria wrap-up Group D with a comfortable win

Tunisia progress as Nigeria wrap up Group C with a comfortable win

At the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Tunisia progressed to the Africa Cup of Nations round of sixteen after their 1–1 draw with Tanzania on Tuesday.

Tunisia started strong, keeping possession early, but failed to increase their pace. They threatened the goal with Ismael Gharbi, whose powerful shot hit the post.

Just before halftime, Tunisia scored. Hazem Mastouri was fouled in the box by Bakari Mwamnyeto, and after a long VAR review, Tunisia was given a penalty. Gharbi converted the penalty, putting Tunisia ahead 1–0.

The first half was low in energy, but Tunisia managed their lead comfortably. After halftime, Tunisia chose to defend their lead instead of attacking further. This cautious strategy allowed Tanzania to gain confidence and push forward.

Tanzania found their chance in the 54th minute when Feisal Salum made a great shot from the edge of the area. The ball surprised goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen and went into the netlevellingng the score.

In the final minutes, both teams made substitutions and appeared satisfied with a 1–1 draw. This result secured Tunisia’s place in the Round of 16 as the group’s second-placed team, while Tanzania kept hopes alive for qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.

Tunisia’s Coach Sami Trabelsi emphasised the importance of qualifying, stating, “We haven’t performed well in recent years, so this matters. We need to improve for the stronger teams ahead.” Tanzania’s Coach, Miguel Gamond, expressed pride in his team’s effort, noting the significance of this qualification for Tanzanian football.

Nigeria topped the group with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, effectively ending Uganda’s campaign. Nigeria’s Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the 28th minute, while Raphael Onyedika scored twice after Uganda’s Salim Magoola received a red card in the 56th minute. Uganda managed to score in the 75th minute through Rogers Mato.

Nigeria finished with three wins, and Onyedika, named Man of the Match, reflected on his happiness and the need for focus in both practice and games.

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

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

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

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

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

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