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
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.

Guinea named 23-man African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad
by FSL News

Guinea named 23-man African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad

Ibrahima Sory Sankhon, a seasoned midfielder, is one of the standout players in Guinea’s final 23-man squad for the forthcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

As Guinea looks to build on their 2020 tournament semi-final run, coach Souleymane Camara announced the team on Friday, confirming a well-rounded roster that includes both young talent and seasoned local players.

As part of the nation’s intense preparations for the tournament, which begins on August 2, 2025, the players are currently going through a rigorous training program in a military camp in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The Syli National is placed in Group C, which is arguably one of the competition’s most competitive pools, along with South Africa, Uganda, Niger, and Algeria.

Sankhon, who joined AS Kaloum after returning home in January, is anticipated to provide leadership and stability to the midfield. He is accompanied by Lansana Sylla (Horoya AC), Ousmane Dramé (Hafia FC), and Mohamed Madani Diarra (SAG Siguiri) in a central unit that sets the pace and directs play.

The attacking lineup for Guinea features notable players like Mohamed Lamine Youla (Renaissance FC), Bourhane Camara (RCC Kamsar), and Moussa Moïse Camara (Wakriya AC), aiming to bolster the team’s offense in the tournament.

The defensive unit, consisting of nine players including Kabinet Kouyaté (Hafia FC) and Bangaly Cissé (ASM Sangarédi), focuses on strength and unity to withstand tough competition.

Goalkeeping duties will be shared among Mamadou Yéro Diallo (Renaissance FC), Mory Keïta (Hafia FC), and Ousmane Camara (Flamme Olympique), all of whom come with solid domestic form.

Coach Camara’s team is set to head to East Africa soon for final preparations, looking to make a strong impact on the continental stage. 

Douala-born Christian Michel Kofane signs for Bayer Leverkusen
by FSL News

Douala-born Christian Michel Kofane signs for Bayer Leverkusen

Confirming the move on Friday, Bayer 04 Leverkusen has signed 18-year-old striker Christian Michel Kofane from Albacete.

Hailing from Douala, Cameroon, Kofane is the most recent young African talent to join the German team following an impressive season in Spain’s La Liga 2.

Kofane began with Albacete’s junior team and was promoted to the senior team in January. Two minutes into his professional debut in a 22 draw against Racing Santander on January 11, he scored.

He was then often the first-choice striker for Albacete and played in every match he could. With eight goals over 20 games in the second half of the 2024–25 season, he helped the team finish 10th in La Liga 2.

With the physical characteristics of a contemporary striker, Kofane shows good reflexes and composure on the field. It will be intriguing to observe how Leverkusen nurtures him and whether they will retain him or send him out on loan for the 2025–26 season.

Banda nets twice as Zambia beat Senegal in five-goal thriller
by FSL News

Banda nets twice as Zambia beat Senegal in five-goal thriller

With a 3-2 victory over Senegal in Group A on Wednesday at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia, Zambia made a strong statement in their quest for the title at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The game was exciting, full of action, strong shots, and instances of personal brilliance. Having twice encountered a tough Senegalese squad, the Copper Queens showed their resolve to grab all three points.

Following a lacklustre 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco in their opening, Zambia understood they needed this victory, and they produced. Scoring just five minutes in, with star player Nguenar Ndiaye finding the net thanks to a pass from Méta Kandé, Senegal surprised them.

Zambia responded quickly, with Captain Barbra Banda equalising in the 12th minute after a pass from Racheal Kundananji. They took the lead just six minutes into the second half when Kundananji scored in the 51st minute 

Banda’s brace came in the 73rd minute, widening Zambia’s lead. Senegal had a chance to come back when Ndiaye scored from a penalty in the 80th minute, narrowing the lead to 3-2.

In extra time, Senegal pressured with corners and attempts, but Zambia’s goalkeeper, Ng’ambo Musole, made crucial saves to secure the victory. With this win, Zambia sits on four points in Group A as they aim for their final group match, demonstrating their intent to be title contenders.

Racheal Kundananji named Woman of the Match
Racheal Kundananji named Woman of the Match
Defender Abraham Kanu signs new Reading deal
by FSL News

Defender Abraham Kanu signs new Reading deal

Young defender Abraham Kanu has officially signed a fresh one-year contract, thereby confirming his commitment to the Royals.

Kanu was rewarded following a significant season in which he made 16 appearances for the First Team during the 2024/25 season.

At only 19, Kanu showed his club-level potential and won global acclaim representing the Sierra Leone Under-20 team at this summer’s Africa Cup of Nations.

His outstanding performances helped the team to make their way to the Quarter Finals, when they came up against Morocco in a tough match and narrowly lost.

Kanu’s performance in this elite tournament highlights his development and holds forth an amazing future for both him and the Royals.

He was part of the Sierra Leone U20 African Cup of Nations side, where he played against South Africa.

Forward Kamaldeen Sulemana pens Atalanta deal from Southampton
by FSL News

Forward Kamaldeen Sulemana pens Atalanta deal from Southampton

Forward Kamaldeen Sulemana has moved from Southampton to Italian side Atalanta for a price that could reach £18 million.

For a club-record £22 million, the 23-year-old was acquired in 2023 and made 74 appearances for the Saints. At Atalanta, Sulemana meets his former Southampton coach, Ivan Juric.

On transfer deadline day in February 2023, the Ghana international moved to Southampton from the French team Rennes. In two and a half years spent on the south coast, he had four goals and seven assists.

Southampton has also traded forward Paul Onuachu, who was acquired under then-manager Nathan Jones in the same transfer window as Sulemana.

DR Congo's striker Kabongo Tshimanga pens Crawley Town deal
by FSL News

DR Congo’s Kabongo Tshimanga pens Crawley Town deal

After being released by League One team Peterborough United, DR Congo striker Kabongo Tshimanga has inked a two-year deal with Crawley Town Football Club.

Tshimanga has demonstrated his ability as a goalscorer by enjoying fruitful runs with sides like Boreham Wood and Chesterfield. Last season, he scored 13 goals in an amazing loan season at Swindon Town.

For four straight seasons during his time at Oxford City, Boreham Wood, and Chesterfield, Tshimanga, 26, was chosen for the Team of the Year. Among his many personal accolades are Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year at several teams.

Having previously represented England C, his best year was in 2018–19 at Oxford City, where he scored an amazing 37 goals in all contests. Before relocating to Peterborough in January 2023, Tshimanga had scored 74 goals over 141 outings. With Crawley Town, he would want to recover his scoring ability.

Kabby could play in Friday’s friendly against Hearts; he is presently training with the team in Spain.