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
Uganda's Cranes set for International friendly doubleheader
by FSL News

Uganda’s Cranes set for International friendly doubleheader

Uganda Cranes have finished selecting their squad in Marrakech, Morocco against Cameroon on Friday, June 6, and the Gambia on Monday, June 9—as the Cranes prepare for upcoming competitive matches.

Bobosi Byaruhanga, Elio Capradossi, Jordan Obita, Allan Oyirwoth, Isaac Muleme, and Elvis Bwomono have joined the team, increasing the total number of players to 27.

Striker Steven Mukwala will not be joining the team due to a minor injury he sustained while playing for Simba SC in Tanzania.

Wigan Athletic defender Toby Sibbick was the first of the eight foreign-based players to arrive at the training camp. With Mukwala’s injury, there are now seven foreign players available.

The team will hold its second training session this evening in Marrakech, with all players expected to participate.

Full Uganda Cranes Squad in Marrakech:

Goalkeepers

Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows, South Africa)

Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces, Ethiopia)

Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC, Uganda)

Hannington Sebwalunyo (NEC FC, Uganda)

Defenders

Elvis Bwomono (St Mirren, Scotland)

Nico Wadada (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Elio Capradossi (AS Cittadella, Italy)

Arnold Odong (SC Villa, Uganda)

Toby Sibbick (Wigan Athletic, England)

Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Jordan Obita (Hibernian FC, Scotland)

Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Žižkov, Czech Republic)

Midfielders

Bobosi Byaruhanga (Oakland Roots, USA)

Kenneth Semakula (Club Africain, Tunisia)

Allan Oyirwoth (New England Revolution, USA)

Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC, Uganda)

Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Travis Mutyaba (Bordeaux, France)

Forwards

Dennis Omedi (APR FC, Rwanda)

Hakim Kiwanuka (APR FC, Rwanda)

Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Rogers Mato (FK Vardar, North Macedonia)

Usama Arafat (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa, Uganda)

Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC, Uganda)

Mohammad Shaban

Star Sport Academy's Karim lauds team's effort after win over Blackpool
by FSL News

Star Sport Academy’s Karim lauds team’s effort after win over Blackpool

After securing their first victory in the second phase, Star Sport Academy’s head coach, Amidu Karim, praised his team for demonstrating remarkable resilience in their 3-0 win at the SLFA playing ground.

For head coach Amidu Kamrim, who has recently taken over the squad, this 3-0 triumph is especially significant as it marks his first victory in charge. “We are delighted with the effort everyone put in and excited about the future!” he said.

Coach Amidu Karim expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thanks to the Almighty for this first victory. I hope the boys continue to work hard for the upcoming matches.

I want them to stay focused in future games. Today, they showcased an impressive performance. This win underscores our dedication. Overall, the squad displayed outstanding belief and composure.”

Yankuba J. Tarawally, chairman of the club, also congratulated the team on their first triumph of the Leone Rock Premier League second round, following their victory.

“Congratulations to the players, technical team, and management for such a wonderful and tremendous victory. We pray that the team will continue to show the same resilience in the coming fixtures,” he added.

Sierra Queens one step closer to Women's Cup Mauritania title
by FSL News

Sierra Queens one step closer to Women’s Cup Mauritania title

The Sierra Leone Women’s National Team, fondly known as the Sierra Queens, is poised to win the Women’s Cup title after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mali in the semi-final held at the Cheikha Ould Boïdiya Stadium on Thursday.

They will face the winner of the match between Senegal and Liberia. The second semi-final will take place later in the evening at the same venue, featuring Liberia against Senegal.

The match saw Salamatu Kamara net the decisive goal in the 85th minute of the second half, showcasing her impressive skills and determination on the field.

For the third consecutive match, Sierra Leone’s goalkeeper, Hannah Juana, was named Woman of the Match. Her exceptional performance, marked by crucial saves and a commanding presence in the box, played a pivotal role in ensuring her team’s progression to the final.

With her help, the Sierra Queens continue to inspire their fans and carry the hopes of a nation as they strive for championship glory.

Sierra Leone International Idris Kanu pens new Barnet deal
by FSL News

Sierra Leone International Idris Kanu pens new Barnet deal

Barnet has signed new deal with Sierra Leone International Idris Kanu, who was part of the 2021 Cup of Nations squad in Cameroon.

Idris played a significant role for the Bees last season, making 38 appearances in the Vanarama National League. He contributed 2 goals and 3 assists during the title-winning season, including a crucial goal in the thrilling comeback against Dagenham & Redbridge, which ended in a 4-3 victory.

Having joined the club in September 2022 from Peterborough United, Idris quickly became a regular and key player in Manager Dean Brennan’s squad. In total, he has made 117 appearances for Barnet, scoring 18 goals and providing 9 assists.

Speaking about his new contract, Barnet Manager Dean Brennan said, “Idris has been a special player for the club over the last two years and has played a massive part in our success. He’s a huge personality within the group, and we’re delighted he has committed his future to the football club.”

Nigeria win U-20 AFCON bronze after defeating hosts Egypt on penalties
by FSL News

Nigeria win U-20 AFCON bronze after defeating hosts Egypt on penalties

Nigeria secured third place in the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 after winning an eye-catching penalty shootout 4-1 against the host team, Egypt, on Sunday.

The third-place match at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo ended in a tie at 1-1 after 90 minutes, leading to penalties where Nigeria kept their cool to claim their fifth bronze medal in U-20 AFCON history.

This victory marked Nigeria’s fifth bronze medal and their 14th top-three finish in U-20 AFCON history. It also continued their good record against host teams, as they beat Egypt for the second consecutive tournament.

Egypt, on the other hand, could not keep their perfect record in third-place matches and conceded their first goal at this stage.

Egypt started strong, scoring in the third minute with a goal from Osama Omar. Nigeria equalized early in the second half when Bidemi Amole scored.

The match went straight to penalties without extra time. Nigeria scored all four of their penalty kicks, while Egypt missed two.

Egypt’s early goal pressured Nigeria, but Nigeria soon took control, creating several chances. Clinton Jephta and Precious Benjamin both tested goalkeeper Abdel Monem Tamer, while Israel Ayuma missed with long shots.

Two minutes into the second half, Nigeria equalized when Divine Oliseh passed to Amole, who scored. Nigeria pushed for a winner, with substitutes Tahir Maigana and Kparobo Arierhi boosting the attack. Egypt almost clinched victory in stoppage time, hitting the bar and post.

With a 1-1 draw at the end of regular time, the match went to penalties. Nigeria scored all four of their penalties, while Egypt’s Mohamed Atef and Ahmed Kabaka had their shots saved by 15-year-old goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.

FT 1-1 Penalties – Nigeria (4-1)Egypt 

Tunisia register first U20 Cup of Nations Group B victory
by FSL News

Tunisia register first U20 Cup of Nations Group B victory

In a thrilling comeback, Tunisia secured a vital 3-1 victory over Kenya in their crucial second Group B match at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, held at the vibrant 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo.

After suffering a narrow defeat against Nigeria in their opener, Tunisia entered this match with a fierce determination to avoid consecutive losses, and they delivered an emphatic response in the second half.

The encounter began with Kenya striking first, setting the stage with a stunning performance that ignited the crowd. Lawrence Ouma broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, finding the net with a close-range finish after a clever assist by Hassan Beja. Kenya’s dynamic first-half display saw them take an early lead, promising hope following their narrow 3-2 loss toMorocco.

As half-time approached, Tunisia found a lifeline through a penalty awarded after a VAR review revealed a handball by Baron Ochieng in the box. Farès Bousnina stepped up to convert the penalty with poise, leveling the score just before the break and shifting the momentum firmly in Tunisia’s favor.

The Carthage Eagles emerged from the interval like a whirlwind, displaying an intensity that left their opponents reeling. Coach’s tactical changes paid off as substitutes Omar Ben Ali and Alaeddine Derbali stepped onto the pitch, instantly making their mark. In the 70th minute, Ben Ali demonstrated remarkable composure, deftly finishing from close quarters after a relentless wave of Tunisian attacks pushed Kenya back.

As the match drew to a close, Derbali delivered a stunning blow five minutes from time, unleashing a spectacular long-range strike that soared into the top corner of the net, igniting the Tunisian fans into a frenzy. This decisive goal capped off a stellar second-half display and allowed Tunisia to break their four-match winless streak in the finals.

Meanwhile, Kenya, who had begun the match with vibrant attacking flair, gradually faded as the second half wore on, unable to muster the energy and aggression they had shown earlier. With this defeat, they remain without a point after two matches, facing a daunting challenge to advance to the knockout stages.

Tunisia’s triumph propels them to three points in Group B, creating heightened anticipation for the crucial clash between Nigeria and Morocco later that evening, as all four teams remain in contention for a spot in the next round.

CAF Hosts Life Skills Lectures for Sierra Leone and Egypt U20 teams
by FSL News

CAF Hosts Life Skills Lectures for Sierra Leone and Egypt U20 teams

On Sunday, May 4th, the Confederation of African Football conducted a motivational and life skills workshop for the Sierra Leone and Egypt U-20 teams, including their coaches, at the Mercure Hotel in Ismailia.

Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers.

The workshop was moderated by former Nigerian international and AFCON 1994 winner Daniel Amokachi, alongside Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association. Both are members of the CAF Technical Study Group and brought valuable insight to the session.

Amokachi praised the players’ dedication, acknowledging their strong performance and Group A leadership. He stressed the importance of building healthy relationships, making smart investments, and acquiring additional skills to ensure a stable future.

He encouraged players to pursue education and consider roles such as coaching, administration, and mentoring to help shape their post-football careers.

Steenbok commended the teams’ intensity and addressed both short- and long-term career strategies. He highlighted the importance of mentorship and leadership in a footballer’s journey, encouraging players to take on active leadership roles for personal and professional growth.

The young Sierra Leonean players left the session inspired and grateful for the guidance.

Many saw it as a turning point, reminding them that success goes beyond the pitch. With renewed focus, they embraced the path of discipline, education, and leadership as vital parts of their football journey.

Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association and Sierra Leone U20 skipper Momoh I Kamara
Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association and Sierra Leone U20 skipper Momoh I Kamara
Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers.
Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers
𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐰
by FSL News

𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐰

Sierra Leone U20 head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara spoke after Sunday’s goalless draw against Zambia in their opening match of the CAF TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Reflecting on the result, Kamara admitted that no team wants to start a tournament without a win. He said: “𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒌 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔.”

The head coach emphasized the need to understand why, despite dominating possession, his side struggled to score. Looking ahead, Kamara acknowledged the challenge of facing hosts Egypt but remained determined. “𝑻𝒐 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆, 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 o𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅. 𝑾𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒖𝒑 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆. 𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒈𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓,” he added.

Meanwhile, IF Bromby goalkeeper Mamadou Wurie Jalloh, who made his CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations debut, expressed satisfaction with his performance. Wurie backed his team to go all out for wins in the upcoming matches, confident they can reach the next round of the tournament.

Sierra Leone’s next match is against the host nation Egypt, who defeated South Africa at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, topping the table.

Egypt wrap-up preparations for U20 AFCON opener against South Africa
by FSL News

Egypt wrap-up preparations for U20 AFCON opener against South Africa

AFCON U20 hosts Egypt finished their preparations for their match against South Africa. The game will take place at 9 PM tomorrow, Sunday, at Cairo Stadium.

This match is the opening of the African Cup of Nations, which Egypt will host from April 27 to May 18. The tournament also serves as a World Cup qualifying event.

The final training session happened at Medina Stadium in Khalifa. During this time, the coach, Captain Osama Nabih, focused on specific strategies for the upcoming match. He urged his players to pay attention to the instructions and avoid distractions.

The players showed seriousness and dedication as they worked to earn a spot in the match lineup. Wadi Al-Harer’s special training was led by goalkeeping coach Captain Ayman Tahir. Captain Nabih also discussed the strengths and weaknesses of the South African team during a lecture before the last training session.

Performance analyst Ahmed Issam prepared a video report that highlighted South Africa’s strong organization and quick transitions from defense to attack.

Egypt’s national team is in the first group along with South Africa, Sierra Leone, Zambia, and Tanzania. The top two teams from each of the three groups will move on to the quarter-finals. The best third-place team will also qualify, giving teams finishing in the top four the chance to reach the World Cup.

Ghana share AFCON U20 firendly spoils with Kenya in Cairo
by FSL News

Ghana share AFCON U20 friendly spoils with Kenya in Cairo

Ghana’s Black Satellites played a friendly match against Kenya on Wednesday evening in Cairo, which ended in a 2-2 draw. This match was an important step in their preparation for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The game tested both team’s as they get ready for the tournament. Dreams FC striker Abdul Aziz Musibau stood out in the first half by scoring two great goals, demonstrating his sharp instincts and good movements off the ball.

Kenya responded well, with goals from Hassan Beja and Lawrence Ouma leveling the score before halftime. Ghana’s starting lineup featured key players like Emmanuel Mensah, Aziz Issah, Appiah MacCarthy, and Gidios Aseako, who displayed a strong mix of creativity, strength, and tactical skill.

Kenya’s U-20 Men’s National Team, known as the Rising Stars, is entering the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations with great optimism following a strong qualifying campaign.

Their path to the continental tournament has been characterized by resilience and a desire for success, and the team is eager to showcase their potential on this prominent stage.

With four AFCON titles and a U-20 World Cup win, the Black Satellites are eager to reclaim their top position and qualify for the 2025 U-20 World Cup in Chile. Their campaign will begin on May 2 against DR Congo.

Kenya in Group B, where they face continental heavyweights Nigeria, Tunisia, and Morocco while Ghana in Group C, gearing to face defending champions Senegal, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic.