Author: Football Sierra Leone

CAF Confederation Cup wrap-up: Asante Kotoko beat Kwara United
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF Confederation Cup wrap-up: Asante Kotoko beat Kwara United

Ghana's Asante Kotoko 4-3 against Kwara United from Nigeria on Sunday in the first leg of the 2025-26 CAF Confederation Cup qualifying.

The match took place at the national stadium in Accra. Kotoko took the lead twice in the first half with goals from Emmanuel Antwi and Albert Amoah. However, Johnmark Atule equalised for Kwara twice, making it 2-2 at halftime.

In the second half, Kotoko pulled ahead again with goals from Joseph Ablorh and Amoah, who scored from a penalty. Kwara managed to score again when Abdulraheem Shola found the net five minutes before the end.

The second leg is on September 28 in Abeokuta, about 100 kilometres north of Lagos.

Kotoko seeks to reclaim its strength in African football, having reached the CAF Champions League finals seven times and winning twice between 1967 and 1993. They also lost the first Confederation Cup final in 2004 to Hearts of Oak.

Kwara competes in the Confederation Cup for the third time, previously exiting the qualifying phase against the Moroccan team Renaissance Berkane.

In another match, Abia Warriors drew 1-1 with Malian club Djoliba, thanks to a goal from Chukwuemeka Obioma.

South African team Kaizer Chiefs lost 1-0 to Angolan club Kabuscorp, with Edo Bokota scoring. Chiefs have only won one trophy in the last ten seasons, the FA Cup final against Orlando Pirates, as coach Nasreddine Nabi couldn’t travel to Angola, leaving assistant coaches in charge.

Results – First Preliminary Round (First legs)

16 September
Forestiers FC (Seychelles) 1–0 15 de Agosto (Equatorial Guinea)

19 September
Welayta Dicha (Ethiopia) 0–0 Al-Ittihad (Libya)
Aigle Royal (Cameroon) 0–1 San Pedro (Côte d’Ivoire)
USFA (Burkina Faso) 1–0 Gbohloe-su (Togo)
Nigelac (Niger) 0–0 Olympique de Safi (Morocco)

20 September
El Merriekh Bentiu (South Sudan) 0–2 Azam (Tanzania)
Flambeau du Centre (Burundi) 2–1 Al Akhdar (Libya)
Madani (Sudan) 1–0 Étoile Sportive du Sahel (Tunisia)
FC 105 Libreville (Gabon) 2–0 ZESCO United (Zambia)
Bhantal (Senegal) 0–3 Hafia (Guinea)
Singida Black Stars (Tanzania) 1–0 Rayon Sports (Rwanda)
Stade Tunisien (Tunisia) 2–0 SNIM (Mauritania)
Kabuscorp (Angola) 1–0 Kaizer Chiefs (South Africa)
NEC FC (Uganda) 2–2 Nairobi United (Kenya)

21 September
Generation Foot (Senegal) 1–1 Académie de FAD (Côte d’Ivoire)
Black Man Warrior (Liberia) 0–0 Coton FC (Benin)
Abia Warriors (Nigeria) 1–1 Djoliba (Mali)
Asante Kotoko (Ghana) 4–3 Kwara United (Nigeria)
15 de Agosto (Equatorial Guinea) 4–0 Forestiers FC (Seychelles)
Primeiro de Agosto (Angola) 1–2 Otohô d’Oyo (Congo)
Port (Djibouti) 1–2 KMKM (Zanzibar)
Dekedda (Somalia) 1–0 Zamala Ruwaba (Sudan)
Ferroviário Maputo (Mozambique) 1–1 AS Fanalamanga (Madagascar)
Mighty Wanderers (Malawi) 1–0 Jwaneng Galaxy (Botswana)

Second-leg dates: 26–28 September 2025.

Bhantal suffer heavy home CAF Confederation Cup defeat
by Football Sierra Leone

Debutant Bhantal suffer heavy home CAF Confederation Cup defeat

Debutant Bhantal from Sierra Leone, participating in this season's CAF Confederation Cup, suffered a significant 3-0 loss at home in the first leg of the preliminary stage.

Hafia FC kicked off their African campaign in impressive fashion, delivering a commanding win over Banthal FC this past Saturday, September 20, in Sierra Leone. This match marked the first leg of the initial preliminary round of the Confederation Cup.

From start to finish, the Green and Whites displayed their dominance on the field, led by a standout performance from Salif Camara, who netted two goals. Reinforcement Sekou Damaro Bangoura added to the tally, rounding off the scoring with a well-deserved third goal.

With this solid advantage in hand, the three-time African champions are now set to approach the return leg scheduled for this Friday in Abidjan, determined to secure their spot in the next round.

Bhantal coach Ibrahim Sillah eyes CAF Confederation win over Hafia
by Football Sierra Leone

Bhantal coach Ibrahim Sillah eyes CAF Confederation Cup win over Hafia

Bhantal FC head coach Ibrahim Sillah is feeling optimistic as his team gears up for their first leg in the CAF Confederation Cup against the former African powerhouse Hafia of Guinea.

Bhantal FC head coach Ibrahim Sillah is feeling optimistic as his team gears up for their first leg in the CAF Confederation Cup against the former African powerhouse Hafia of Guinea.

The CAF License A tactician is poised to lead the team in its inaugural participation in the CAF Confederation Cup for the 2025/26 season. Sillah brings lots of extensive expertise to the club he joined a few weeks ago.

The Sierra Leonean club will host the Guinean side this Saturday at the Southern Arena for the first leg of the preliminary round. Coach Sillah recognises the challenges of competing at this level of continental football.

“First of all, I want to highlight our team’s chances against Hafia. It’s important to acknowledge that Hafia is a three-time winner of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, now known as the CAF Champions League, as well as a one-time champion of the UFOA Cup. We need to respect their history,” the CAF A License coach stated.

Although we are making our debut in this competition after just two seasons in the Sierra Leone Premier League, I believe we are strong contenders. This is our chance to create our own legacy by winning the first leg at home. We need to come out on top, and I have faith that we can do just that on Saturday.”

In Port Loko, we prepared by playing three friendlies against Port Loko All Stars and Waterloo FC, winning both matches and drawing 1-1 with the champions, East End Lions.

Meanwhile, the 16-time Guinean champions Hafia have arrived in Bo, the second largest city in Sierra Leone by population (after Freetown) and the largest city in the Southern Province.

The two teams will compete again next week in the return match in the ivorian capital. The winner from both matches will play against the Algerian team CR Belouizdad in the second round of the preliminaries.

The 16-time Guinean champions Hafia have arrived in Bo
The 16-time Guinean champions Hafia have arrived in Bo
Cameroon's Andre Onana named man of the Match after debut
by Football Sierra Leone

Cameroon’s Andre Onana named Man of the Match after debut

Cameroon International keeper Andre Onana made his first appearance for Turkish club Trabzonspor after completing his loan transfer from Manchester United for the 2025/26 season.

Onana was chosen to start in goal against Fenerbahce by head coach Fatih Tekke during their Turkish Super Lig match on Sunday.

Unfortunately, Trabzonspor experienced their initial defeat of the season, with their new loan player responsible for the only goal in a 1-0 loss.

The goalkeeper managed to touch a low shot from just inside the area but failed to maintain possession of the ball, which did not seem to be heading on target.

Fenerbahce player Sebastian Szymanski reacted quickly to the loose ball and passed it to Youssef En-Nesyri, who scored easily from close range.

Trabzonspor, who were reduced to ten players following a red card for Okay Yokuslu, concluded the match with a two-game winless streak.

Despite the blunder and the loss, Onana put in a solid performance throughout the match.

The 29-year-old recorded eight saves for Trabzonspor against 29 shots directed at him from Fenerbahce.

Even with his mistake, he earned the title of player of the match. Trabzonspor will be hopeful that Onana can build on his performance from the weekend when he makes his home debut next weekend against Gaziantep.

Sierra Leone U17 in Group B against Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea
by Football Sierra Leone

U17 qualifiers: Sierra Leone to meet Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea in Group B

Sierra Leone has been drawn into Group B for the upcoming WAFU-A Zonal Tournament, which serves as the qualifying competition for the prestigious 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (U-17) football championship.

In this competitive group, Sierra Leone will face off against formidable opponents, including Senegal, Mauritania, and Guinea, in Group B.

Group A includes Mali, Liberia, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau, competing to qualify for the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, with the top teams advancing to the tournament.

The tournament is set to take place from October 3 to October 18, 2025. Matches will be held at three key venues in Mali, which include: Stade Mamadou Konaté in Bamako, renowned for its modern facilities and capacity to host large crowds.

Stade Ouezzin Coulibaly, also located in Bamako, is known for its vibrant atmosphere during local and international matches.

Stade Mamadou Diarra H in Koulikoro, which offers a unique setting for both players and fans alike.

This tournament is crucial for these young athletes, as their performance could secure a spot in the continental competition, showcasing their talent on a larger stage and providing valuable experience in international football.

Cameroon's André Onana’s Manchester United exit is imminent
by Football Sierra Leone

Cameroon’s André Onana’s Manchester United exit is imminent  

André Onana’s tenure at Manchester United seems to be coming to an end after conflicts with manager Ruben Amorim reached a critical point.

According to English outlets, the relationship between the Cameroonian goalkeeper and the Portuguese coach has deteriorated in recent weeks, resulting in them no longer speaking to each other.

Amorim has reportedly criticised Onana’s professionalism, particularly his choice to participate in a local match in Cameroon during his vacation on a pitch deemed hazardous.

Reports indicate that Onana is close to finalising a transfer to Turkish side Trabzonspor, with his departure regarded as nearly certain.

Tension grew between Onana and Amorim before the international break, with Amorim accusing Onana of lacking commitment in training. Relegated to the bench, Onana was never seen as part of the coach’s long-term plans. The situation worsened after Onana’s mistakes in Manchester United’s surprising cup loss to Grimsby.

These errors reinforced Amorim’s belief that the goalkeeper could no longer be trusted at the highest level. Additional criticism was directed at Onana’s performances for the Cameroon national team.

His recent performance in the loss against Cape Verde faced significant scrutiny, with some observers blaming him for the outcome. These challenges have reinforced Amorim’s belief that the player’s departure is essential for restoring balance within the squad.

Now, with Trabzonspor looking to make a move, his time at Old Trafford appears set to conclude sooner rather than later.

Senegal leapfrog DR Congo after comeback win in Group B
by Football Sierra Leone

Senegal leapfrog DR Congo after comeback win in Group B

In Group B, Senegal staged a thrilling comeback in Kinshasa and moved ahead of DR Congo with goals from Pape Gueye 39’, Nicolas Jackson 53’, and Pape Sarr 87’

DR Congo jumped to a two-goal lead with Bakambu’s goal and Wissa’s follow-up. Senegal responded with a goal from Pape Gueye, narrowing the gap before halftime.

They levelled the score when Jackson scored from a rebound and took the lead with Pape Sarr’s goal late in the match.

Senegal now tops the group ahead of their upcoming matches against South Sudan and Mauritania. DR Congo needs to regroup quickly for their matches against Togo and Sudan to keep their hopes alive.

DR Congo 2–3 Senegal – Scorers: Cédric Bakambu 26’, Yoane Wissa 33’ (DRC); Pape Gueye 39’, Nicolas Jackson 53’, Pape Sarr 87’ (Senegal)

Elsewhere, matchday 8 of Africa’s qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026 brought exciting moments and important outcomes.

Cape Verde won 1-0 against Cameroon, putting them at the top of their group. In Johannesburg, South Africa, and Nigeria played to a 1-1 draw in a close match. Egypt and Burkina Faso ended in a 0-0 tie, while Togo celebrated their first victory by beating Sudan 1-0.

In a tightly contested match, South Africa and Nigeria settled for a 1-1 draw. South Africa took the lead with an own goal from Troost-Ekong, but Nigeria responded just before halftime with a goal by Bassey.

In the second half, both teams created chances, with Nigeria looking more dangerous on counterattacks. The draw keeps South Africa well-positioned for automatic qualification, while Nigeria needs to win their remaining matches to stay in contention.

In Group A, Egypt missed a chance to secure qualification, playing to a goalless draw against Burkina Faso. An early injury to Omar Marmoush hampered their attack, and despite Salah having a goal ruled out for offside, they couldn’t break through a solid Burkina Faso defence. With two matches left, the group’s outcome remains up in the air.

Sierra Leone must win to keep slim hopes of a playoff spot alive
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone must win to keep slim hopes of a playoff spot alive

The Liberian Capital will host an intriguing Group A matchday eight 2026 World Cup qualifying tie as host Sierra Leone face off against the Walia Ibex of Ethiopia. Kickoff 13hrs GMT

Sierra Leone must win to ignite their chances of a runners-up spot later this afternoon. Only a win will keep the West Africans’ hopes alive, especially after Guinea-Bissau’s 2-0 win over Djibouti on Monday.

Coach Mohamed Kallon’s side must head into their final three games of CAF qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with only one mindset: to bag nine points if they are to have any chance of making it to the playoff spot.

In Group A of the CAF qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Burkina Faso sits second on 14 points but well adrift of Egypt at the top of the group. Behind the Burkinabe outfit, Guinea-Bissau, having played a game more, on ten points, overtook Sierra Leone with their 2-0 win over Djibouti on Monday.

Sierra Leone is five points adrift of the runner-up spot and a potential playoff berth, but a win will keep their dreams alive going into the final round of matches in October against Burkina Faso and Djibouti.

Key Stats

Sierra Leone has won two, drawn three and lost two in their last seven matches in the World Cup qualifiers (W2 D3 L2).

Ethiopia have won only one of their last seven World Cup qualifying matches (W1 D3 L3).

Sierra Leone must win to keep slim hopes of a playoff spot alive
Sierra Leone must win to keep slim hopes of a playoff spot alive
Uganda keep tabs on Algeria in Group G race for top spot
by Football Sierra Leone

Uganda keep tabs on Algeria in Group G race for top spot

Uganda kept their hopes alive following matchday eight of Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Group G as Algeria settled for a draw against Guinea.

Malawi staged a strong comeback against Liberia, Madagascar triumphed over Chad, and Guinea-Bissau found new optimism with their victory against Djibouti.

In the match between Uganda and Somalia, Uganda emerged victorious with a score of 2–0. Scorers: Allan Okello (6 pen), Jude Ssemugabi (39) – responding to Mozambique’s earlier win, Uganda clinched a crucial victory in Kira Town.

Allan Okello netted a penalty just six minutes into the game, and Jude Ssemugabi followed up with another goal before the halftime whistle. This win places Uganda level on points with Mozambique in second place in Group G, trailing only leaders Algeria – a team they will face in a pivotal match next month.

Guinea 0–0 Algeria

Algeria’s usually strong offence struggled in Casablanca. They did not score in a World Cup qualifier for the first time in 37 matches. Guinea’s goalkeeper, Alexis Guendouz, performed well, while Mohamed Amoura missed Algeria’s best chance. Djamel Belmadi’s team remains at the top of Group G with 19 points, but needs to wait until October to secure qualification.

Malawi 2–2 Liberia

Scorers: Gabadinho Mhango (72), Chawanangwa Kawonga (80) for Malawi; Ayouba Kosiah (4, 61) for Liberia  

Ayouba Kosiah scored twice for Liberia, including a bicycle kick in the fourth minute, putting them ahead. However, Malawi fought back. Gabadinho Mhango reduced the gap before Chawanangwa Kawonga equalised eight minutes later, earning a point for Malawi in a thrilling match.

Madagascar 3–1 Chad

Scorers: Warren Caddy (51), Rayan Raveloson (68), Hakim Abdallah (90+3) for Madagascar; Yves Allarabaye (24) for Chad  

Chad took the lead with a goal from Yves Allarabaye. However, Madagascar rallied after halftime. Warren Caddy equalised, Rayan Raveloson put them ahead, and Hakim Abdallah scored in stoppage time to secure the win. This victory places Madagascar at the top of their group alongside Ghana with three games left to play.

Guinea-Bissau register second World Cup qualifying win in Group A
by Football Sierra Leone

Guinea-Bissau register second World Cup qualifying win in Group A

On Monday, Guinea-Bissau improved its chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by earning a 2-0 win against Djibouti at the Estádio 24 de Setembro.

Following a 1-1 draw with Sierra Leone, new coach Emiliano Té led his team to their second win in the qualifiers after eight matches.

The victory came thanks to two second-half goals: Iano Inbeni scored in the 52nd minute, followed by a header from Fali Cande in the 82nd minute, much to the delight of the home fans.

As a result, the win moves them into third in Group A, at least until Sierra Leone faces Ethiopia on Tuesday in the Liberian capital, Monrovia.

With two international windows remaining, nine CAF group winners will qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, and the four best runners-up will enter a playoff.

Morocco and Tunisia lead the way as qualified teams ahead of the final rounds.