Author: Football Sierra Leone

African match officials named to officiate at the FIFA Club World Cup
by Football Sierra Leone

African match officials named to officiate at the FIFA Club World Cup

Issa Sy from Senegal, Ibrahim Mutaz from Libya, Dahane Beida Mauritania in Photo, Mustapha Ghorbal from Algeria, and Jean Jacques Ndala from DR Congo were named among the 117 match officials from 41 member associations selected, including 35 referees, 58 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials, for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

The FIFA Referees Committee has announced the match officials for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, set to take place from June 14 to July 13 in 12 stadiums across 11 U.S. host cities. This announcement follows seminars with referees from all six confederations.

The names mentioned highlight Africa’s growing influence in international football officiating and its role in shaping the game.

Ghorbal is among Africa’s most experienced referees, having officiated at the FIFA World Cup and CAF events. Ndala and Sy have also built strong reputations through their consistent performance in high-level matches, both in Africa and internationally.

This tournament will not only showcase club excellence but also introduce referees wearing body cameras for the first time, providing fans with unique insights into in-game decisions via DAZN.

FIFA Referees Committee Chairman Pierluigi Collina called this appointment a “privilege,” emphasizing its significance in a referee’s career.

As clubs compete in America this summer, Africa can take pride in its referees, who embody fair play and inspire a new generation of officials across the continent.

Mali book U17 AFCON semis spot with victory over Tunisia
by Football Sierra Leone

Mali book U17 AFCON semi-final spot with victory over Tunisia

Mali secured their spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Tunisia in an intense 10-9 penalty shootout after finishing 1-1 in regulation time on Friday evening at Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi in El Jadida.  

The fiercely contested match saw both teams give it their all, but it was Mali who remained composed during the penalties to earn their place in the final four of the continental tournament.  

Seydou Dembélé put Mali ahead in the 42nd minute, expertly finishing a well-coordinated move with a precise strike into the top corner.  

The West African side controlled much of the first half, applying high pressure and generating numerous opportunities through Dembélé and Soumaila Fané.  

Tunisia emerged stronger after halftime and eventually got their reward in the 79th minute when Anisse Saidi hit a powerful low shot from distance to equalize for the North Africans.  

With the match tied at 1-1 at the end of regulation, it went directly to a penalty shootout to establish the winner.  

The shootout became a lengthy ordeal, as both sides confidently converted pressure-laden penalties in an impressive demonstration of poise.  

After 19 successful attempts, Tunisia’s Slim Bouaskar had his penalty blocked by Mali’s goalkeeper, Cheick Diarra, who then scored to send Mali into the semi-finals, sparking celebrations.  

Mali’s progression highlights their strong U-17 AFCON history as they prepare to face Burkina Faso, aiming for their third title after wins in 2015 and 2017.  

Tunisia exits the tournament proudly after a commendable challenge against one of Africa’s top youth teams.

Ivory Coast through to U17 Cup of Nations semis after defeating Senega
by Football Sierra Leone

Ivory Coast through to U17 Cup of Nations semis after defeating Senegal

Ivory Coast won 5-3 on penalties after playing to a goalless draw against defending Champions Senegal in the quarter-finals of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Friday.

The match was intense and tactical, with Cote d’Ivoire defeating the defending champions. Both teams played carefully and did not show their usual fast-passing style.

Key players like Alynho Haidara from Cote d’Ivoire and Barhama Ndiaye from Senegal were quiet for most of the game. In the second half, both teams tried harder to score.

In the 87th minute, Vaboue Doumbia had an excellent opportunity to score, but his low cross nearly went in with the goalkeeper out of position. Senegal almost won at the end when substitute Ibrahima Sow’s close-range shot was cleared off the line.

With the score at 0-0, the match went to penalties. Cote d’Ivoire won 5-3 in the shootout.

Ziyad Baha nets twice as Morocco beat South Africa in U17 AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Ziyad Baha nets twice as Morocco beat South Africa in U17 AFCON

Morocco advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating South Africa 3-1 on Thursday in Mohammedia.

Playing in front of a supportive home crowd at Stade El Bachir, Morocco took control early, with Ismail El Aoud scoring in the 13th minute.

South Africa fought back and equalized with Neo Bohloko’s header in the 54th minute but Morocco quickly regained the lead. Ziyad Baha scored twice, first in the 61st minute and then a minute later, securing the win.

Morocco defended well throughout the match, with goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch making key saves to maintain their advantage.

This victory confirmed Morocco’s spot in the semi-finals, joining Burkina Faso, who beat Zambia 6-1 earlier in the day. Morocco’s strong attacking and defensive play makes them a top contender for the U-17 AFCON title.

Al Ahly, Esperance, Sundowns all set for Intriguing second leg CAF Champions League ties
by Football Sierra Leone

Al Ahly, Esperance, Sundowns all set for Intriguing second leg CAF Champions League ties

The CAF Champions League semi-finals are on the line Tuesday as four teams look to overcome deficits, while others aim to protect slim leads in quarter-finals are entering a critical phase with second-leg matchups set to determine who advances to the final four of Africa’s top club tournament.

Sundowns up against tough Esperance

Mamelodi Sundowns heads into a challenging match against Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis with a narrow 1-0 lead. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s squad needs to stay firm to avoid last season’s semi-final disappointments.

Key players include Namibian forward Peter Shalulile and Brazilian playmaker Lucas Ribeiro. Sundowns will rely on their experience against a determined Esperance team aiming for their fifth Champions League title.

Under coach Maher Kanzari, they seek to turn the deficit around, with star player Youcef Belaïli expected to lead their attack. The Tunisian crowd will be a crucial motivator as Esperance looks to make a comeback.

MC Alger seeks revenge against Orlando Pirates

MC Alger faces a tough challenge after losing 1-0 to Orlando Pirates in the opening match in Algiers. The return leg in South Africa presents a significant test for the Algerians, who now must produce a strong away performance to remain in the competition.

Coach José Riveiro’s Pirates are the favorites for the second leg in Johannesburg.

The Buccaneers displayed solid defense in the first encounter, and fans hope to see players like Evidence Makgopa return to scoring form or potentially witness a surprising comeback from Monnapule Saleng, who recently resumed training after an extended absence. MC Alger will aim to harness their belief and character to defy the expectations away from home and turn the tie in their favor.

Pyramids FC are ready but cautious in Morocco

Egypt’s Pyramids FC holds a strong lead in the quarter-finals after a 4-1 victory over Morocco’s Royal Army in Cairo. The team’s attacking trio, consisting of Ibrahim Adel, Ramadan Sobhi, and Fiston Mayele, played a key role.

Coach Krunoslav Jurcic aims to secure their advancement in the upcoming match in Rabat. Despite the setback, Royal Army’s coach, Alexandre Santos, remains hopeful for a comeback on home ground. The match is taking place amid tensions between the clubs due to complaints over fan restrictions and stadium access.

Al Ahly cautious of an upset as Al Hilal prepares for an ambush in Nouakchott.

Al Ahly holds a 1-0 lead against Al Hilal ahead of their second-leg match in Nouakchott, due to security issues in Sudan. Coach Marcel Koller aims for improved offensive play from players like Achraf Bencharki, Imam Ashour, and Wissam Abu Ali, while veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy anchors the defense. 

Uncertainty grips Sierra Leone FA after chaotic Congress
by Football Sierra Leone

Uncertainty grips Sierra Leone FA after chaotic Congress

In the highly anticipated Football Congress of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, FIFA and CAF representatives witnessed severe violence and misconduct.

Just prior to the start of the congress, there were several injured individuals, including the President’s Personal Assistant, David Turner. This unexpected act of violence, unprecedented in any sporting event in Sierra Leone, resulting to Ordinary Congress was aborted.

The congress was intended to elect various independent committees for a four-year mandate, specifically the Ethics Board, the SLFA Appeals and Disciplinary Committees, the newly proposed Audit and Compliance Committee, and the electoral bodies.

It was also slated to review and approve newly proposed football statutes, as well as other agenda items typical for annual ordinary congresses, such as the approval of the annual audit report and the budget for the upcoming year.

The behavior of delegates and supporters at the congress has been condemned by a significant portion of Sierra Leoneans, as well as by global football pundits and analysts. It has embarrassed the nation and raised concerns about FIFA’s next steps.

During the congress, there was evident animosity and division within the Executive Committee (EXCO), political divides among delegates, and a desperate scramble for power among leading aspirants. The involvement of government officials and security forces, who appeared to incite problems in favor of certain candidates, further exacerbated the situation.

According to a reliable and knowledgeable source, the only viable option for FIFA in this context is to establish a Normalization Committee due to the level of conflict and incidents that violate FIFA’s policies against third-party interference.

Normally, FIFA would refer such matters to the General Secretary of FIFA and CAF to determine a new attempt at convening the congress. However, due to the extensive violence, reported divisions among EXCO members, and inappropriate behavior towards FIFA and CAF representatives, it is likely that the FIFA Secretariat, responsible for operational affairs and decision-making in the absence of a FIFA Council meeting, will move towards implementing a Normalization Committee.

The source explained that a Normalization Committee would be authorized by FIFA statutes and would be supervised and directed entirely by FIFA. Unlike an elected executive, this committee would be accountable only to FIFA.

The only other alternative would be a more lenient approach involving one more attempt to convene the congress, which is typically pursued when issues are less severe than those currently faced in Sierra Leone.

The source concluded that the FIFA General Secretariat would probably wait for reports from the FIFA and CAF representatives, as well as the General Secretary of the SLFA, before consulting with the Head of the African Division and the CAF General Secretary for a final decision, which could be expected before the end of the week.

Zambia Advance to FIFA U-17 World Cup after Billy Daka's winner
by Football Sierra Leone

Zambia Advance to FIFA U-17 World Cup after Billy Daka’s winner

A crucial goal by Billy Daka in the closing stages of the match helped Zambia secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, eliminating Uganda in the process. This victory also earned Zambia a place in the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Zambia finished second in Group A, following group leaders Morocco, as both teams progressed to the knockout stage of the competition.

The match was highly tactical, with both sides approaching the game cautiously given the stakes involved. Zambia took the lead in the 20th minute when a lapse in concentration by the Ugandan defense allowed Kelvin Chipelu to score, putting the Southern African nation ahead.

Zambia maintained their lead going into halftime with a slight advantage, but Uganda responded aggressively in the second half. Just minutes after the break, Elvis Torach levelled the score for Uganda in the 49th minute.

As the game continued, both teams struggled to break the deadlock until Daka emerged as the hero for Zambia in the 86th minute, scoring the pivotal goal that sent Zambia through to the knockout stages and secured their place in the World Cup.

Senegal play to a goalless draw against Tunisia in U17 AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Senegal play to a goalless draw against Tunisia in U17 AFCON

Defending champions Senegal must wait until the final day of group matches to officially secure their place in the quarterfinals of TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

In their second group encounter on Friday, Senegal and Tunisia played to a stalemate, ending in a 0-0 draw in a tough contest within Group C.

Although Senegal controlled possession, they could not break through the well-organized defense of the North Africans, who were steadfast in both defensive and offensive efforts throughout the game.

Following a slim 1-0 win against The Gambia in their initial match, Senegal aimed to secure a spot in the quarterfinals early. Conversely, Tunisia, after a strong start with a 3-0 victory over first-timers Somalia, sought to achieve an upset.

With both sides earning a point, the concluding match day of the group phase is set to be thrilling. Senegal will take on Somalia in a crucial must-win match, while Tunisia is set to face The Gambia, who still hold a slim chance of progressing from this tough Group C.

Both matches on Match Day 3 are scheduled for Monday, April 7. The two teams finishing at the top of the group will not only ensure a quarterfinal spot but also earn the chance to represent Africa at the FIFA U-17 World Cup later this year.

SLFA boss Thomas Daddy Brima released after meeting bail conditions
by Football Sierra Leone

SLFA boss Thomas Daddy Brima released after meeting bail conditions

A significant development has occurred in Sierra Leonean football following the release on bail of SLFA President Thomas Daddy Brima, Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh, and Finance Manager Ibrahim Bah, who were arrested on corruption allegations.

Mr Brima and co meet bail conditions of 500 million old Leones each and two sorties each. Residing in the Western Area – The SLFA congress is expected to go ahead as planned on Saturday.

The trio was taken into custody by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Thursday, causing a stir in the nation’s football community just days before the highly anticipated SLFA congress.

Their release, confirmed by ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala at a press conference, ensures that they will attend the congress scheduled for Saturday in Freetown. The arrests sparked controversy, prompting the Union of Premier League Clubs to dramatically withdraw from the Sierra Leone Premier League in protest.

This situation has drawn comparisons to past incidents, particularly the legal troubles of former SLFA President Isha Johansen, which ultimately resulted in Sierra Leone’s suspension by FIFA in 2018.

As the congress approaches, all eyes will be on the SLFA leadership. Will they be able to restore stability and prevent external sanctions, or is Sierra Leonean football facing yet another crisis? For now, the football community waits in anticipation for the next chapter in this ongoing saga.

Listen to the SLFA boss after he was released

Uganda beat neighbouring Tanzania to increase qualification hopes
by Football Sierra Leone

Uganda beat neighbours Tanzania to increase qualification hopes

After their heavy opening loss to Morocco, Uganda made a strong recovery, securing a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over neighbouring Tanzania on Match Day 2 of the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 on Thursday.

Three second-half goals from Simon Wanyama, Richard Okello, and James Ogere’s expertly taken penalty secured a convincing win for the Ugandan team.  

The determined Ugandans came out strong from the start, with Wanyama, Bogere, and Isima Magala creating some thrilling attacking plays for their side.  

Tanzania, also looking to recover from a 4-1 loss to Zambia, attempted to break through the Ugandan defense but struggled with poor decision-making.  

Both teams went into halftime with the score still level, setting the stage for an exciting second half.  

Wanyama scored the first goal in the 61st minute, providing a much-needed sense of calm for the Ugandan squad.  

In the 85th minute, a moment of lost focus allowed Okello to seize a loose ball in the danger zone, extending Uganda’s lead with only five minutes remaining.  

With the match firmly under their control, Uganda rounded off their victory after Tanzania committed a foul in the final minutes, allowing Magala to confidently convert the penalty for the third goal.  

This crucial win propels Uganda ahead of the last-placed Tanzania, whose chances in the tournament are now precarious.