Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Augustine Williams & Buya Turay make official Indy & Legion debut
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Augustine Williams & Buya Turay make official Indy & Legion debut

On Saturday, two Sierra Leonean strikers, Augustine Williams and Buya Turay, started for their respective clubs in the USL Championship.

Williams’s Indy Eleven suffered an opening defeat in the USL Championship on Saturday despite the inclusion of Augustine Williams in the starting eleven.

They lost 2-1 to Oakland Roots SC, their Western Conference opponent, in their only matchup for the 2024 season.

Indy continues its road swing next Saturday at Memphis 901 FC at 4 p.m. ET before returning home on March 23 for their home opener against Sacramento Republic FC.

In the meantime, Mohamed Buya Turay started for his new side, Birmingham Legion FC, who won 1-0 against Phoenix Rising at Rising Park, marking the start of the new USL Championship season.

Legion took the lead thanks to Diba Nwegbo’s strike, which deflected off an opponent before finding its way into the back of the net.

Striker Turay was substituted in the 62nd minute of the game due to an injury. Their next away game is scheduled on March 23 against Hartford Athletic.

Emmanuel Samadia was present as an unused substitute for Hartford Athletic in their recent game against El Paso Locomotive, which they won 1-0.

El Paso Locomotive FC had a disappointing start to their 2024 season as they lost 1-0 to Samadia’s Hartford Athletic on Saturday night at Southwest University Park.

Striker Daniel Kanu nets in Charlton win over Carlisle
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Daniel Kanu nets in Charlton’s win over Carlisle

Sierra Leone’s Daniel Kanu scored yet again, while Alfie May scored twice to ensure Charlton’s victory.

Charlton secured their second consecutive League One victory this season with a 3-2 win over Carlisle United. 

Despite an unexpected lead from Luke Armstrong’s 20th-minute volley, Charlton managed to turn the game around with goals on either side of half-time. May scored the first, following up a deflected shot from Kanu in the 37th minute, and Kanu himself scored the second, crashing home from close range in the 54th minute.

Carlisle’s manager, Paul Simpson, had urged his players to show pride, and they did so by equalising from the penalty spot through Taylor Charters after Macaulay Gillesphey fouled Armstrong.

However, Charlton’s superior quality eventually showed, and May scored the decisive third goal. He latched onto a loose back-pass from former Addick Sam Lavelle and rounded the keeper to claim his fourth goal in four games, after only scoring one goal in the previous 13 games.

Charlton’s first home victory since November has now placed them comfortably in mid-table, with a 10-point lead over 21st-placed Cheltenham, and has quickly eliminated any relegation concerns. 

Unfortunately, Carlisle’s 10th loss in 11 games means they will almost certainly be relegated.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – Players Abroad News.

Al Ahly beat rivals Zamalek to lift Egyptian Cup in Riyadh
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Al Ahly beat rivals Zamalek to lift Egyptian Cup in Riyadh

In the Egyptian Cup final held in Riyadh, Al Ahly beat Zamalek 2-0 to win the cup for a record 39th time.

The match was tightly contested, with no goals scored until the 84th minute when Imam Ashour scored for Al Ahly. Mohamed Afsha sealed the victory for Al Ahly in stoppage time.

The match was played in front of a capacity crowd at Al Waleed Park Stadium, which highlights African football’s popularity beyond the continent.

Al Ahly’s win continues their period of success, having won 11 of the last 13 domestic cup competitions.

Zamalek has suffered yet another disappointment in their ongoing effort to end Al Ahly’s dominance in football.

They have not won the cup since 2019, and this latest setback is particularly significant because they lost the Egyptian Premier League title to Ahly last season.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – African Football News.

Sierra Leone's Alhassan Koroma nets first career hat trick
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Alhassan Koroma nets first career hat trick

On Friday, Al Shahaniya midfielder Alhassan Koroma scored his first career hat-trick in a 4-1 victory over Al-Sailiya in round 12 of the Qatar second-tier campaign. 

The former East End Lions and Linense midfielder took his tally to six in the ongoing campaign. 

The Sierra Leone International expressed his joy in helping his side secure a fantastic win as they continue to chase promotion. 

He tweeted, “I couldn’t have asked for a better feeling than scoring my first career hat trick. It’s a moment I’ll never forget and I’m grateful for the support of my teammates and coaches who helped make it possible. Allah is great.” 

This win helped Al Shahania Sports maintain their second spot in the Qatari second tier as they continued their pursuit of promotion. 

Al-Khor, who is tied with the same points, is leading on goal difference and currently sits at the top of the table.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – Players Abroad News. 

The former East End Lions and Linense midfielder took his tally to six in the ongoing campaign.
The former East End Lions and Linense midfielder took his tally to six in the ongoing campaign.
SLFA's boss Thomas Brima hails womens football progress
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

SLFA’s boss Thomas Brima hails women’s football progress

On International Women’s Day, the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association, Thomas Daddy Brima, was proud to celebrate the achievements of our female footballers.

Following the conclusion of the Ram Kay/SLFA Women’s Football Tournament, the SLFA president expressed his satisfaction with the outcome.

Sierra Queens achieved another 2-0 victory against the Liberian U20 team, with goals from Jariatu S Kamara and Adama Kargbo. Before that, the Sierra Leone U17 team played a 1-1 draw against the Liberian counterparts. 

Overall, both Sierra Queens and U17 teams emerged victorious over their opponents and recorded more wins in Kenema in celebration of International Women’s Day.

During his speech, Brima reiterated his commitment to the football community, addressing dignitaries, media, and fans alike.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the people of Kenema for hosting the tournament and to the Liberian Football Association for their support. 

The outcomes of the Ram K and SLFA Female Football tournaments are a testament to our dedication towards promoting female football in Sierra Leone,” proudly stated the chief of SLFA.

“My leadership will ensure women’s football league is played every year. We are constructing modern artificial turf pitches in Freetown, Port Loko, Bo, and Kono to replace the dusty fields.”

“In the coming weeks, we have exciting developments to share – we will be providing buses to both the National male and female A teams to ensure that football becomes a sport for everyone. I would like to express my gratitude to the technical staff of the Under-17 and Senior Female “A” teams for their exceptional work. 

I would also like to extend my thanks to the organizers, SLFA staff, and the Kenema District Football Association for their efforts in making the tournament a success. 

Heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees and champions, and a very happy Women’s Day to all our wonderful women in sport,” he concluded.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – National News 

Congratulations to Sierra Leone's national senior team, the Sierra Queens, for winning the Women's Day Cup with an impressive 2-0 victory over Liberia U20 in the final match. They finished the tournament with 9 points from four games. Well done!
Congratulations to Sierra Leone's national senior team, the Sierra Queens, for winning the Women's Day Cup with an impressive 2-0 victory over Liberia U20 in the final match. They finished the tournament with 9 points from four games. Well done!
In the Women's Day Cup, Sierra Leone U17 drew 1-1 against Liberia in a thrilling match. However, with an impressive 8 points, Sierra Leone has secured victory in their category of the tournament.
In the Women's Day Cup, Sierra Leone U17 drew 1-1 against Liberia in a thrilling match. However, with an impressive 8 points, Sierra Leone has secured victory in their category of the tournament.
Standing Ovation for Edwards' teenage star Musa Bangura
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Standing ovation for Edwards’ teenage star Musa Bangura

On February 28th, in Kono, Musa Bangura, a 15-year-old student of St. Edward’s Secondary School received a standing ovation from his schoolmates for his goal of the match. 

Musa played a crucial role in the squad that defeated Diamond Stars in Kono after being selected by Head Coach John Dominic Konneh.

The Result moved the May Park boys to seventh in the first round of the Sierra Leone Premier League standings.

He showed off his dazzling football skills and produced a Man of the Match performance, leading Old Edwardians to victory with a 1-0 score at the Koidu City playing field.

Coach Konneh praised Musa’s attitude and dedication, while Principal Wyse expressed delight with his performance.

Asst. Team Manager Peters presented Musa with a token of appreciation and encouraged him to focus on both football and studies.

This news was brought to you by the Old Edwardians Media Department.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone – National News.

Musa Bangura, a 15-year-old student at St. Edward’s Secondary School, received a standing ovation from schoolmates after scoring the only goal for Old Edwardians in Kono against Diamond Stars.
Musa Bangura, a 15-year-old student at St. Edward’s Secondary School, received a standing ovation from schoolmates after scoring the only goal for Old Edwardians in Kono against Diamond Stars.
Sierra Leone's Daniel Kanu helps Charlton Athletic beat Cheltenham
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Daniel Kanu helps Charlton Athletic beat Cheltenham

On Tuesday, Sierra Leone International Daniel Kanu scored as Charlton Athletic defeated Curtis Davies’ Cheltenham Town 3-1 in the English League One.

The goal was Kanu’s third for Charlton Athletic since returning from his Southend United loan spell. 

After the Addicks took a first-half lead through Kanu, Liam Sercombe, in the 70th minute, drew parity for the home side. 

But two late strikes from Tyreeq Bakinson and Alfie May ensured Charlton’s victory. The win eased their relegation fears and lifted them seven points clear of their hosts and the drop zone.

Kanu scored the first goal for Charlton, while Sercombe equalized for Cheltenham. Bakinson scored a late goal to give Charlton a lead, and May scored the third goal to win the match.

Charlton Athletic secured a win that moved them up to 14th place in the table. Nathan Jones’ squad will now prepare to host Carlisle United at the Valley on Saturday.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 –Players Abroad News.

Bo Rangers beat Bhantal to maintain lead in Leone Rock Premier League
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Bo Rangers beat Bhantal to maintain top spot

On Saturday, Bo Rangers FC secured a 2-0 victory against Bhantal FC in a highly contested first-round final Sierra Leone league match at the Southern Arena Stadium in Bo City. 

Mohamadu Lamin scored for the host in the opening two minutes before Yusuf Sesay doubled the host lead in the 75th-minute crucial tie in the race for top place.

John Keister’s side displayed an exceptional performance, leaving the visiting side unable to secure anything from the tie. Despite displaying great determination, the visitors were unable to break the host’s resolute defence.

The reigning and defending champions remain top of the table with 37 points – extended their lead by 6 points after their crucial win.

FC Kallon is in second on 32 points – while Bhantal FC is in 3rd position with 31 points.

Both sets of fans witnessed an exciting clash between two top-tier teams, with Bo Rangers FC ultimately coming out on top with a well-deserved victory. 

The victory cements Bo Rangers’ position at the top of the table, while Bhantal FC will take the time to regroup and prepare for their upcoming matches with renewed determination.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – National News. 

Sierra Leone's Leone Rock Premier League First Round standings
Sierra Leone's Leone Rock Premier League First Round standings
Issa Kallon nets Nantong Zhiyun's debut goal in the Chinese Super League
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Issa Kallon nets Zhiyun’s debut goal in Chinese Super League 

On Saturday, Sierra Leone International Issa Kallon made a bold debut for Nantong Zhiyun in the Chinese Super League opening game of the 2024 season.

Nantong Zhiyun played away to Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

Kallon, who is 28 years old, scored the equalizer for Nantong Zhiyun in the 67th minute. He received a pass and slotted the ball at the bottom right of the net. 

The home team, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, was held to a draw by Nantong Zhiyun.

Kallon had joined Nantong Zhiyun after winning the title of last season with Shanghai Port. 

He started his football career as a youth exponent from FC Utrecht and made his Eredivisie debut on 24th August 2014 in a 1-2 away win against Feyenoord on 24 August 2014 in a 1–2 away win against Feyenoord.

https://twitter.com/bittar32/status/1763913111285731671

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – Players Abroad. 

Attacker Isaac Babadi signs new PSV Eindhoven until 2028
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Attacker Isaac Babadi signs new PSV Eindhoven deal until 2028

PSV has agreed to sign Isaac Babadi, an eighteen-year-old midfielder from the PSV Academy, to a four-and-a-half-year contract. Babadi expressed his happiness and pride as he looks forward to playing for PSV in the coming years.

Isaac Babadi, a talented midfielder signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with PSV after making his debut in both the Eredivisie and the UEFA Champions League this season. 

He aims to help PSV win the championship and become an important basic player. 

Director of Football Affairs Earnest Stewart is thrilled to have Isaac on the team and praises his creativity and ability to hold his own in a team with a lot of quality. 

Last season, Isaac played thirty games in the Kitchen Champion Division, scoring five times. 

Since his official debut in August 2023, he has played seventeen games for PSV 1 and scored his first Eredivisie goal in February.

Connect with us @football_sierra on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the Writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 – Players Abroad News.