Author: Football Sierra Leone

Mjøndalen IF Fotball confirm Alie Conteh's Sierra Leone call up
by Football Sierra Leone

Mjøndalen IF Fotball confirm Alie Conteh’s Sierra Leone call up

Sierra Leone is competing in the World Cup qualifiers, and our striker has once again been selected for the national team squad, as noted by the Norwegian second-tier side.

It does not surprise Kevin Nicol that the West Africans have nominated Conteh for the matches against Guinea-Bissau and Egypt on March 20 and 25, respectively.

– He has been in very good form so far in the pre-season, so it’s not surprising, no. We have previously seen that Alie returns from the national team training camp with new energy, so we hope for more goals already in the series opener against Egersund, says the head coach.

Conteh has to sit out the dress rehearsal against Haugesund, but that doesn’t worry Nicol.

– No, it simply means that another player gets valuable match training against a good reference and can show off, he continues.

Important matches

Sierra Leone are fourth in Group A of the African World Cup qualifiers after four matches, but have a chance to grab the important second place that could qualify them to play in the World Cup.

Egypt are superb and has escaped, while opponents Guinea-Bissau currently hold the important second place. However, they are only one point ahead of the Leone Stars, as the national team is called.

Uganda Cranes ready for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Guinea
by Football Sierra Leone

Uganda Cranes ready for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Guinea

Uganda has made seven changes to its 25-man squad for this month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers, recalling six players and giving uncapped midfielder Enock Ssebagala his chance to make his international debut.

New additions include center-backs Elvis Bwomono and Toby Sibbick, striker Muhammad Shaban, backup goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa, attacking midfielder Abdu Karim Watambala, and left-winger Patrick Kakande.

Uganda will face Mozambique in Cairo on March 20, followed by a home match against Guinea in Kampala.

Departing players include goalkeepers Charles Lukwago and Mutwalibu Mugolofa, defenders Halidi Lwaliwa and Geoffrey Wasswa, midfielders Bobosi Byaruhanga, Taddeo Lwanga, and Saidi Mayanja, and strikers John Paul Dembe, Shafik Nana Kwikiriza, and Derrick Nsibambi.

Currently, Uganda sits on six points in Group G, with two wins and two losses, three points off the top of the table.

Full Squad:

Goalkeepers: Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces, Ethiopia), Joel Mutakubwa

(BUL FC), Isima Watenga (Lamontville Golden Arrows, South Africa),

Defenders: Timothy Awany (Ashdod, Israel), Elvis Bwomono (St Mirren, Scotland), Aziz Abdu Kayondo (Slovan Liberec, Czech Republic), Gavin Kizito (Kampala Capital City Authority), Bevis Mugabi (Famagusta Anorthosis, Cyprus), Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Zizkov, Czech Republic), Toby Sibbick (Wigan Athletic, England)

Midfielders: Khalid Aucho (Young Africans, Tanzania), Travis Mutyaba (Girondins Bordeaux, France), Allan Okello (Vipers), Kenneth Semakula (Club Africain, Tunisia), Enock Ssebagala (National Enterprise Corporation), Ronald Ssekiganda (SC Villa), Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers)

Forwards: Calvin Kabuye (Mjallby, Sweden), Patrick Kakande (SC Villa), Hakim Kiwanuka (APR FC, Rwanda), Rogers Mato (FK Vardar, North Macedonia), Steven Mukwala (Simba, Tanzania), Denis Omedi (APR FC, Rwanda), Muhammad Shaban (Al Anwar Al Abyar, Libya), Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara).

Ethiopia rally troops for World Cup qualifier against Egypt and Djibouti
by Football Sierra Leone

Ethiopia rally troops for World Cup qualifiers against Egypt and Djibouti

Ethiopia has called up four new players for their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Egypt and Djibouti this month. Midfielder Habtamu Tekeste returns to the team for the first time in four years.

Ethiopia will host Egypt in Casablanca, Morocco, on March 21, and then face Djibouti in El Jadida, Morocco, on March 24.

Coach Mesay Teferi selected 24 players – the new players include defenders Woldeamanuel Getu and Abduselam Yusuf, and strikers Ahmed Hussien and Mohammed Abera.

Tekeste, 26, is back on the team after not playing since November 2021. Striker Abubeker Nassir is the only player from abroad. He signed with South African club SuperSport United this season but has not yet played due to an injury.

Ethiopia aims to win its first match in Group A of the 2026 African qualifiers. The team has only three points from four games and is seven points behind Egypt, the leaders.

Squad:

  • Goalkeeper: Biniyam Genetu (Wolayta Dicha), Seid Habtamu (Awassa Kenema), Abubeker Nura (Ethiopia Medhin)
  • Defenders: Birhanu Bekele (Sidama Bunna), Woldeamanuel Getu, Ramkel James (both Ethiopia Bunna), Frezer Kassa (Bahardar), Yareed Kassaye (Ethiopia Medhin), Ahmed Rashid (Dire Dawa Kenema), Aschalew Tamene (Mekelakeya), Amanuel Tarfa (Kedus Giorgis), Asrat Tunjo, Abduselam Yusuf (both Dire Dawa Kenema)
  • Midfielders: Wogene Gezahegn (Ethiopia Medhin), Biruk Markos (Hadiya Hoseana), Habtamu Tekeste (Fasil Kenema), Bereket Wolde (Kedus Giorgis), Abdulkerim Worku, Amanuel Yohannes (both Mekelakeya).
  • Forwards: Mohammed Abera (Ethiopia Medhin), Bereket Desta (Mekelakeya), Chernet Gugsa (Bahardar), Ahmed Hussien (Arba Minch Kenema), Abubeker Nassir (SuperSport United, South Africa).
Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen named in Eric Chelle's first Nigeria squad
by Football Sierra Leone

Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen named in Eric Chelle’s first Nigeria squad

The Super Eagles will play against group C leaders Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, March 21, before returning home to face Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo four days later.

Napoli and African best player Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen have been named to the Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle final 23-man roster upcoming Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Last week, the coach had announced a larger provisional squad of 39 players. This will mark his first matches leading the three-time African champions.

The team is made up of three goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards, featuring a blend of seasoned players and newcomers.

The defensive line continues to be robust, including players like William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while the midfield is supported by Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Raphael Onyedika.

Full squad list:

Goalkeepers: Amas Obasogie, Kayode Bankole, Stanley Nwabali.

Defenders: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Igoh Ogbu, William Troost-Ekong.

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Alhassan Yusuf, Joe Aribo, Papa Daniel Mustapha, Raphael Onyedika, Wilfred Ndidi.

Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Nathan Tella, Sadiq Umar, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Victor Boniface, Victor Osimhen.

Candas Fiogbé receives first Benin International call-up
by Football Sierra Leone

Candas Fiogbé receives first Benin International call-up

Benin’s head coach Gernot Rohr has revealed a 25-player roster for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and South Africa. Among the key additions is 19-year-old striker Candas Fiogbé, who is based in Italy and is receiving his first call-up.

Although Fiogbé has yet to participate in a senior match, he has been active with Atalanta’s under-20 squad in Italy’s Primavera 1 league and their under-19 team in the UEFA Youth League, where he netted six goals.

In addition, defender Brandon Agounon makes a return to the roster after being part of the squad a year ago, even though he has not yet made an appearance for the national team.

Benin will, however, be without French-based players Aiyegun Tosin and Cédric Hountondji due to injuries, while Olivier Verdon has been left out of the squad for disciplinary reasons.

Verdon, 29, featured in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations held in Egypt. The squad comprises only two players from local clubs, with the rest hailing from teams in 17 different nations.

Benin has two upcoming matches: an away game against Zimbabwe in Durban, South Africa, on March 20, followed by a home match against Bafana Bafana in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on March 25. The roster features only two home-based players, with the rest coming from clubs in 17 different countries.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Saturnin Allagbé (Botev Vratsa, Bulgaria), Marcel Dandjinou (JDR Stars, South Africa), Serges Obassa (Remo Stars, Nigeria) 

Defenders: Moise Adilehou (Laval, France), Brandon Agounon (Châteauroux, France), Rodrigue Fassinou (Coton Sport Benin), David Kiki (Steaua Bucharest, Romania), Rachid Moumini (Ayéma), Tamimou Ouorou (Hatta, United Arab Emirates), Yohan Roche (Petrolul 52, Romania), Rabiou Sankamao (Wydad Fès, Morocco), Mohamed Tijani (Yverdon Sport, Switzerland)

Midfielders: Mattéo Ahlinvi (Arsenal Tula, Russia), Mariano Ahouangbo (Soliman, Tunisia), Gislain Ahoudo (Gabès, Tunisia), Samadou Attidjikou (Al Masry, Egypt), Sessi d’Almeida (Apollon Limassol. Cyprus), Dodo Dokou (Smouha, Egypt), Imourane Hassane (Grasshoppers Zurich, Switzerland)

Forwards: Jodel Dossou (Victoria Rosport, Luxembourg), Candas Fiogbé (Atalanta, Italy), Andréas Hountondji (Standard Liège, Belgium), Steve Mounié (FC Augsburg, Germany), Junior Olaitan (Grenoble, France), Steve-Waren Traoré (Haka, Finland) 

Sierra Leone U17 women's share World Cup qualifying spoils with Guinea
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U17 Women’s share World Cup qualifying spoils with Guinea

In an exciting showdown at the Southern Arena in Sierra Leone, the national U-17 women’s football teams of Sierra Leone and Guinea battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw. This match marked the first leg of their contest for a coveted place in the upcoming 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The draw gives Guinea a slight edge heading into the decisive second leg of this round, which is set to take place on March 15, 2025, at the Mamadou Konaté Stadium in Bamako, Mali. Both teams are determined to outshine each other and secure their advancement to the next stage of the tournament.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this year’s U-17 World Cup, which will take place in the vibrant nation of Morocco from October 17 to November 5, showcasing the talents of young female athletes from around the globe.

Nigeria Dominates South Africa (3-1)

As the favourites heading into the match, Nigeria secured a convincing 3-1 victory away from home against South Africa. A brace from Shakirat Moshood and a solitary strike from Harmony Chidi was enough to ensure the Nigerians clinched the win in Pretoria.

Kenya Surprises Uganda in Kampala (2-0)

In an all-East African showdown, Kenya pulled off an impressive victory over Uganda on their home turf. Goals from Nasipwondi and Ogola for the Junior Starlets showcased their ability to manage pressure and convert opportunities. This victory places Kenya in a strong position as they head into the return leg in Nairobi.

Cameroon Shines Against Ethiopia (5-2)

Cameroon delivered a clinical performance, defeating Ethiopia 5-2. With a well-organized team effort, Cameroon quickly took the lead and maintained control throughout the match, leaving little chance for their East African rivals. This commanding victory puts Cameroon in a strong position to advance of the second leg.

Algeria Stunned by Botswana (2-1)

Algeria suffered a surprising defeat at the hands of a clinical Botswana team, which capitalized on its limited chances to score. Despite dominating possession, Algeria struggled to break through, and Botswana punished them with two well-timed goals to secure a 2-1 victory.

Salah nets brace as a late goal from Sarr secured Crystal Palace's win
by Football Sierra Leone

Salah nets brace as late goal from Sarr secured Crystal Palace’s win

Mohamed Salah had another strong game for Liverpool, scoring two goals in their latest Premier League match. This win helps Liverpool stay at the top of the league.

Meanwhile, Ismaïla Sarr scored a brilliant goal for Crystal Palace in their 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town. Liverpool faced a tough challenge against Southampton, who surprised everyone by scoring first just before halftime.

However, Liverpool quickly equalized with a goal from Darwin Núñez and then Salah scored two penalties, raising his total to 25 goals and 17 assists this season.

At Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace struggled against Ipswich until Sarr’s late goal broke the deadlock. He now has 8 goals and 3 assists this season.

Crystal Palace is currently in 12th place and will play Fulham in the FA Cup later this month. Liverpool, meanwhile, will face Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League, leading 1-0 in the first leg.

Exciting Second Round U17 African Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
by Football Sierra Leone

Exciting Second Round U17 African Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

The second round of qualifiers for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco starts this weekend. Several exciting matches are lined up.

Africa has four spots available for the tournament, and teams are eager to qualify.

On Saturday, March 8, the first-leg matches will take place. Cameroon will host Ethiopia, and Tanzania will play against Zambia. A key matchup is South Africa versus Nigeria, two teams with strong international experience.

Other interesting matches include Sierra Leone against Guinea and Benin facing DR Congo.

In East Africa, Uganda will meet Kenya in a CECAFA derby, while Algeria will challenge Botswana in a north versus south match.

Another match to watch is Cote d’Ivoire against Burundi. The second-leg matches are set for March 14 and will be important for deciding which teams qualify.

Zambia and Nigeria, who represented Africa in the last World Cup in the Dominican Republic, hope to win at home and continue their journey.

Some teams are well-known in youth competitions. Nigeria, a five-time qualifier for the U-17 Women’s World Cup, is favoured against South Africa. Cameroon relies on its experience to defeat an improving Ethiopia team.

Zambia must be careful with Tanzania, which has shown its potential. Meanwhile, DR Congo, with less experience, hopes to surprise Benin. Finally, Algeria needs to stay alert against Botswana, a team that can create upsets.

Schedule of the Second Round of the African Qualifiers for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

First-leg Matches

  • Saturday, March 8, 2025 (local time)

14:00

• South Africa vs Nigeria

• Uganda vs Kenya

• Botswana vs Algeria

17:00: Sierra Leone vs Guinea

19:00: Cameroon vs Ethiopia

  • Sunday, March 9, 2025 (local time)

14:00

• Tanzania vs Zambia

16:00

• Benin vs DR Congo

17:00

• Ivory Coast vs Burundi

Second-leg Matches

  • Wednesday, March 12, 2025 (local time)

17:00: Burundi vs Cote d’Ivoire

  • Saturday, March 15, 2025 (local time)

13:00: Ethiopia vs Cameroon

15:00: Zambia vs Tanzania

16:00:Nigeria vs South Africa

17:00: Guinea vs Sierra Leone

  • Sunday, March 16, 2025 (local time)

13:00: Kenya vs Uganda

15:30: DR Congo vs Benin

21:00: Algeria vs Botswana

Josh Koroma named Huddersfield Town Playe of the Month
by Football Sierra Leone

Josh Koroma named Huddersfield Town Player of the Month

Josh Koroma was named as the Blue and White Player of the Month for February 2025 at Huddersfield Town.

This is his second Player of the Month award this season; he also won for September 2024.

In February, the team earned seven points from their matches, and Koroma scored two key goals: one in the win against Barnsley and another that helped secure three points against Shrewsbury. His strong performance led to him being voted Player of the Month.

Callum Marshall and Tawanda Chirewa received other votes, but Koroma was the top choice.

Mr. S. Taylor from Holmfirth and Junior Member J. Sykes from Huddersfield voted for Koroma, who received his award and receive a signed picture during their Sky Bet League One 1-0 defeat to Wrexham on Tuesday, March 4.

Adel Amrouche named new Rwanda head coach on a two year deal
by Football Sierra Leone

Adel Amrouche named new Rwanda head coach on a two-year deal

Algerian coach Adel Amrouche has been appointed as the new head coach of the Rwandan national team, marking his return to coaching. The Rwandan Football Federation (FERWAFA) confirmed his 24-month contract on March 2.

Amrouche’s main goal will be to revitalize the Amavubi and guide them to the 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He will be supported by Eric Nshimiyimana and Dr. Carolin Braun as part of a new technical team.

With extensive experience managing national teams, including Tanzania and Kenya, Amrouche is expected to instill tactical discipline and resilience in the squad.

His immediate focus will be on preparing Rwanda for FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with key matches against Nigeria on March 21, 2025, and Lesotho on March 25, 2025. His appointment aims to steer Rwandan football toward international success.

https://twitter.com/FERWAFA/status/1896200779037565279