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
Tanzania seal historic CHAN quarter-final spot with win over Madagascar
by FSL News

Tanzania seal historic CHAN quarter-final spot with victory over Madagascar

On Saturday at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, two goals from Clement Mzize in the first twenty minutes propelled Tanzania to a 2-1 triumph over Madagascar as they secured their first-ever CHAN quarterfinal appearance, as well as a flawless Group B performance.

Mzize scored in the 13th and 20th minutes; Madagascar’s Nantenaina Razafimahatana scored at 34 minutes. Madagascar pressured with several set pieces during the second half, but Tanzania held firm to win their third straight game.

Previously, Mauritania defeated the Central African Republic 1-0, which, together with Tanzania’s victory, guaranteed nine points for Tanzania at the summit of the group.

Mauritania now leads Burkina Faso and Madagascar, so the last matchday will determine the second qualifying position.

Madagascar needs to defeat Burkina Faso in their last match to advance, while Mauritania’s earlier victory keeps them in contention for second place.

Bhantal set to make CAF Confederation Cup debut against HAFIA FC
by FSL News

Bhantal set to make CAF Confederation Cup debut against Hafia FC

The Sierra Leone representative for this year’s CAF Confederation Cup, Bhantal FC, is set to face the Guinean side Hafia FC in the preliminary round in September.

The draw was conducted at the Azam Media Studios in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania and was streamed on CAF’s Official YouTube channel, CAF TV on Saturday.

In just two seasons since their arrival in the Sierra Leone top-flight, Bhantal FC has made significant progress to qualify for the continental stage, having registered as the runners-up for the 2024/25 campaign.

The preliminary rounds over two legs on the weekends of 19–21 September and 26–28 September 2025. Victors will continue to the Second phase of the competition starting from 17–19 October, the return legs taking place a week thereafter from 24–26 October.

Algeria and South Africa share CHAN Group C spoils
by FSL News

Algeria and South Africa share CHAN Group C spoils

Algeria’s streak of successive wins at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to an end as South Africa mounted a comeback to claim a 1-1 draw in their Group C game in Kampala on Friday.

Driven by a remarkable 30 victory against cohosts Uganda in their opening match, the Fennecs took the lead with Abdennour Belhocini’s controlled shot just before the half-hour mark.

Thabiso Kutumela’s clinical finish right before halftime, however, guaranteed that Molefi Ntseki’s team would leave with a point in their opening game.

With two games under their belts, Algeria still holds a quarterfinal position firmly within sight, while South Africa begins their campaign with a good outcome against one of the favourites of the tournament

Seeking back-to-back victories and extending their eight-match undefeated group stage record at CHAN, Algeria started the game feeling quite sure.

With Aimen Mahious’s deft cross, Abderrahmane Meziane forced an early save from South African goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu in the first minutes. They pushed high.

In the 29th minute, Belhocini seized a loose ball outside the box and curled a left-footed shot into the bottom right corner, catching Xulu off guard and sparking celebration among Algerian fans.

Despite making their competition debut in eleven years, South Africa refused to be intimidated. Although they struggled for much of the first half, they equalised just before halftime when Kutumela tapped in a pass from Menzi Masuku and Neo Maema in the 45th minute, boosting Bafana Bafana’s spirits.

Algeria, with four points from two games, remain in control of their qualification fate and will face Niger in their final group match. A win would guarantee progression to the quarter-finals.

South Africa will now turn their attention to Uganda, knowing that victory could put them on the brink of a knockout place.\

The result also keeps Group C wide open, with all four teams still mathematically in contention.

Man of the Match: Malibongwe Khoza
Man of the Match: Malibongwe Khoza
Kenyan and Angola play to a goalless draw in Group A
by FSL News

Kenya and Angola play to a goalless draw in Group A

In a thrilling Group A game at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 in Nairobi, Ten-man Kenya demonstrated great determination to earn an 1-1 draw against Angola.

Though Marvin Nabwire was dismissed with a red card in the 21st minute while playing before a passionate crowd at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kenya nevertheless remained undefeated in the competition.

Early with a goal from Jó Paciência, Angola took the lead, then Austin Odhiambo’s 12th-minute penalty leveled the score.

Kenya concentrated on strong defense even while a player down, assisted by crucial saves from goalkeeper Byrne Omondi.

Angola believed they had secured a late victory until Kaporal scored in stoppage time, but the goal was denied for offside.

With four points, Kenya leads Group A ahead of Morocco and DR Congo, who both have three points.Angola need to prevail against DR Congo in their final match if they have any chance of moving forward.

This outcome strengthens Kenya’s conviction even further as they go for a historic quarter-final position with a favorable outcome against Morocco.

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey joins Spanish side Villarreal CF
by FSL News

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey joins Spanish side Villarreal CF

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has officially inked for the 2025-26 campaign at Villarreal CF. The former Arsenal man will report for duty starting Friday at Ciudad Deportiva.

“Hailing from Odumase Krobo and born on June 13, 1993, Thomas Teye Partey is a very flexible midfielder noted for his long-range ability and outstanding physical fitness,” the Spanish side wrote.

He is good at reclaiming possession and starting plays from deep in the field. Partey contributes useful qualities to the squad with a strong midrange shot and the capacity to penetrate defensive lines.

With over 50 caps for his national team, the experienced Ghanaian has once played for clubs including Arsenal FC, Atlético de Madrid, UD Almería, and RCD Mallorca. During his time with Arsenal, he won the FA Super Cup in the 2023/24 season; with Atlético de Madrid, he triumphed in the league (2020/21), the European Super Cup (2018/19), and the Europa League (2017/18).

Furthermore, the club recognises that the player is now going through legal procedures in England.

Partey vigorously affirms his purity and rejects all accusations against him. Villarreal CF honours the basic presumption of innocence and is waiting for the court’s decision to clear up the problems at stake.

Because of British rules governing pending cases, the club will withhold further comment on this matter, emphasising its great respect for diversity and the condemnation of all kinds of violence, including gender-based, discriminatory, racial, and xenophobic activities, as well as anything that lowers human dignity.

Villarreal CF underlines its uncompromising dedication.

Striker Augustine Williams nets in win over Rhode Island FC
by FSL News

Striker Augustine Williams nets in win over Rhode Island FC

Sierra Leone International Augustine Williams scored his fourth USL Championship goal of the season on August 2, 2025, in a match at Highmark Stadium, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds prevailed over Rhode Island FC 2-0.

Contributing to the Hounds’ unbeaten streak of eight games and their sixth straight victory in USL Championship action, Williams and Bertin Jacquesson scored in the second half.

In league play, goalkeeper Eric Dick had his eighth shutout. Physicality characterised the game, which led to several bookings and the red card for Rhode Island’s JJ Williams in the 69th minute.

Next on August 9, the Riverhounds will welcome Orange County SC.

Scoring summary

PIT — Augi Williams 51’

PIT — Bertin Jacquesson 57’ (Beto Ydrach)

Zimbabwe's defender Isaac Mabaya joins Wigan Athletic
by FSL News

Zimbabwe’s defender Isaac Mabaya joins Wigan Athletic on loan

Defender Isaac Mabaya has joined Wigan Athletic on loan from Liverpool until the finish of the 2025/26 season. Having made his first-team debut for Liverpool last season against Plymouth Argyle, the 20-year-old is a former England youth international.

The Premier League, EFL, and FA must all agree with this loan agreement. Mabaya’s seventh acquisition of the Summer Transfer Window gives Wigan’s defense much-needed depth.

Preston native Mabaya started at Liverpool when he was six years old. Reaching the U18s at merely 16, he climbed the ranks of the youth team. Training and playing in Asia during Liverpool’s 2022/23 preseason, he impressed with the first team under Jürgen Klopp and grabbed notice.

Mabaya spent most of his time with Liverpool’s senior Academy squad demonstrating his excellent physical ability after signing his first professional contract in summer 2023. Having been on the bench for Liverpool’s Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven recently, he made his professional debut in an FA Cup match against Plymouth Argyle early in 2025.

He will start with Wigan Athletic until the close of the 2025–26 Sky Bet League One campaign. Having formerly played against Lowe’s team in preseason, he hopes to get priceless senior football experience.

“I am happy to be here and cannot wait to begin,” Mabaya said. I think I can contribute something to the team after discussing my expectations with the Head Coach. I find the Gaffer’s approach of play quite appealing; I have had several discussions with him. This is a perfect opportunity for my career to expand. I am anxious to perform in front of the fans because I understand the importance the Club carries. I’m eager to play for the supporters since I have heard how crucial they are and how wonderful the audience is!

Ryan Lowe, head coach, remarked, “I have known Isaac for years.” He feels ready to play even if he has several injuries. Knowing his caliber, I almost signed him when I was at Preston North End. A strong right wingback, he will help our right-side performance. We observed him play for Liverpool U21s and he is fit and enthusiastic to be here. We are delighted to have him and feel he would be a wonderful asset to the team.

Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo express pride in United move
by FSL News

Cameroon International Bryan Mbeumo happy to play for United

Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo expressed his pride in playing for Manchester United. The right winger, born in France, joined the club from Brentford in a deal worth about £65 million for five years, with an option for one more year. (Photo Rio Show)

He is the third Cameroonian to sign with Manchester United, following midfielder Eric Djemba-Djemba and current teammate Andre Onana.

In an interview with Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, Mbeumo shared how exciting it is to wear the team’s shirt. “I’m really proud because Manchester United has fans everywhere and is well-known around the world. When I return to Cameroon, it’s going to feel amazing,” Mbeumo said.

He was also asked about his inspiration in football. Mbeumo named four-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto’o as a key figure in his career. “Samuel Eto’o is a great player. He scored many goals, and that’s what I wanted to do. I am now scoring goals and helping my team win. He was a big inspiration for me,” Mbeumo added.

Bryan Mbeumo played for six seasons at Brentford and helped the team move up from the English Championship. He came through the Troyes academy and has played 22 times for the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, scoring six goals.

Modou Kéba Cissé from LASK pens Aston Villa deal
by FSL News

Modou Kéba Cissé from LASK pens Aston Villa deal

Premier League side Aston Villa have signed defender Modou Kéba Cisse over from Austrian club LASK. (Photo Credit – Aston Villa FC)

“Aston Villa is happy to announce the signing of Modou Kéba Cissé from LASK on a precontract agreement, the Premier League club has confirmed.

Cissé made his senior debut last season, appearing ten times in the Bundesliga and scoring once. He will spend the 2025–26 campaign with the Austrian side and will link up with Villa next season.

Born in Senegal, he rose through the ranks at Spanish team Real Avila before transferring to LASK last summer. Regarded as an intriguing future player, Cisse played 13 times in the Austrian Bundesliga last year.

Kenya assures readiness for African Nations Championship
by FSL News

Kenya assures readiness for African Nations Championship

According to CAF Online, Kenyan officials have performed security checks at important locations in anticipation of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), proving the country’s preparedness to hold the event.

With the tournament set to kick off on August 3, Kenya is co-hosting alongside Tanzania and Uganda. Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security, was part of a team that reviewed the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium, both of which will host matches during the event.

The Kenyan government is committed to ensuring the safety of teams, fans, and officials during the tournament. Murkomen stated, “We want to assure Africa and the world that Kenya is fully prepared to host CHAN 2024 in a secure and welcoming environment.”

He added, “Comprehensive security protocols are in place from our airports to our stadiums to guarantee the smooth operation of the tournament.”

After inspecting Nyayo, Kasarani, and the training facilities, he expressed confidence in the country’s level of readiness. “Kenya is not just ready; we’re also determined to provide a memorable CHAN experience,” he mentioned.

Moreover, the nation has announced visa-free entry for all African nations during the tournament, making it easier for football fans from across the continent to attend.