Category: Players Abroad News

Sierra Leone fasting growing digital football website is passionately on all topics of National and International news, identifying our soccer stars.

Sullay Kaikai nets winner as Cambridge fuels survival hopes
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sullay Kaikai nets winner as Cambridge fuels survival hopes

Sierra Leone’s attacker Sullay Kaikai scored Cambridge United winner as they responded brilliantly to a late equalizer from Huddersfield Town, securing a 2-1 victory in West Yorkshire that bolsters their slim hopes of survival.

The result leaves Neil Harris’s team five points away from safety with only three matches remaining, while Huddersfield once again missed the opportunity to move closer to the top six.

The first half was uneventful for both teams, but Cambridge finally broke the deadlock in the 69th minute. After a Huddersfield goal kick, they quickly sent the ball back down the pitch for Josh Stokes to chase. Though Stokes appeared to have lost possession, a clearance from Josh Ruffels went straight to James Brophy on the edge of the box, who beautifully curled the ball into the top corner.

Despite wasting several chances to score, Huddersfield managed to equalize in the 89th minute following a chaotic corner scored by anothr Sierra Leone International Josh Koroma.

However, there was still time for one last twist. In stoppage time, Koroma’s International teammate Sullay Kaikai fired Brophy’s square pass into the top corner, sealing the win for Cambridge.

Ex-East End Lions midfielder Alpha Kabia pleased to join Minnesota United
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Midfielder Alpha Kabia pleased to join Minnesota United

Young Doctors FC midfielder, who was on loan to East End Lions Alpha Kabia expressed happiness after MNUFC2 announced his signing to a one-year MLS NEXT Pro contract, which includes a club option for 2026.

“We are excited to welcome Alpha to MNUFC2. He has a solid understanding of the game at a young age, is aggressive on the ball, and effectively commands the midfield. We are thrilled to have him join the club and to support his growth as a young professional player, both on and off the pitch,” said Amos Magee, MNUFC Head of Development & Player Pathway.

“I extend my sincerest gratitude to Minnesota United and MNUFC2 for believing in me and providing this incredible opportunity,” said Alpha Kabia. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey; I’m excited to take this important step in my career. To my loved ones, I couldn’t have done this without you. Your encouragement and sacrifices mean the world to me. Thank you for being my rock. I dedicate this achievement to all Sierra Leonean players back home: never lose hope and never abandon your dreams.”

Kabia, 19, who has joined MNUFC2 on a one-year MLS NEXT Pro contract, with an option for 2026, previously played for East End Lions in Sierra Leone’s National Premier League on loan from Young Doctors FC.

Kabia started at Young Doctors FC, playing youth matches from 2017 to 2022, and was loaned to Mount Aureol Freetonians SLIFA from 2022 to 2024.

Internationally, Kabia has represented Sierra Leone’s U20 team and played a key role in their WAFU Group A Qualifiers, helping them qualify for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Blackburn attacker Augustus Kargbo is itching to get back to playing
by Football Sierra Leone

Blackburn attacker Augustus Kargbo is itching to get back playing

Sierra Leone and Blackburn attacker Augustus Kargbo has expressed his commitment to returning to action in the English Championship with Blackburn.

Kargbo has been spending time on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury, which has sidelined him for six weeks. The Blackburn Rovers forward was substituted just 15 minutes into the match at Pride Park, where the team lost 2-1, following a couple of early challenges.

In an exclusive interview with the club’s TV, Kargbo shared his excitement about being back on the field and playing on natural grass again.

He stated, “It feels great to be back, and I am working hard with the physios to return as soon as possible. I am going to be patient and follow their advice because I am an explosive player, and I need to be cautious.”

Sierra Leone's Juma Bah out of Lens League tie against Lille due to injury
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Juma Bah out of Lens derby tie against Lille due to injury

Lens’ Juma Bah suffered a serious injury during training on Saturday morning when he collided head-to-head with teammate Jonathan Gradit, Lequipe reports.

As a result, Bah lost two teeth and spent the afternoon in the hospital for further examination. He will miss the Lille derby this Sunday at 8:45 p.m. and will not return to action until Tuesday, by concussion protocol.

Bah sat in shock for several minutes following the collision and will likely be replaced by Malang Sarr at kickoff. Meanwhile, Gradit has also sustained an injury, requiring stitches for a cut on his eyebrow. His fitness is currently uncertain, and a medical examination will assess the condition of his swollen eye on Sunday morning after he wakes up.

With both players’ statuses in question, Lens is expected to play in a 5-3-2 formation if Gradit is fit. If he cannot play, coach Will Still may need to switch to a 4-5-1 formation.

Two teams competing for European football next season face off in Ligue 1 this weekend as Lille hosts Lens in the Derby du Nord on Sunday evening.

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience

Hull City Academy defender Cayden Cole reported his experience with the Sierra Leone Under-20 after the friendly international match against Morocco in March.

Both nations used this match as part of their preparation for the upcoming African Cup Of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Cole, who plays for Hull City at the U18 level, expressed his satisfaction with playing 70 minutes of Sierra Leone U20’s 2-0 loss to Morocco in the Mohammed VI Sports Complex in Rabat last Saturday.

“I’ve loved every moment, getting to know the other players and the staff, and just playing overall. The team has come together nicely despite our diverse backgrounds, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this U20 squad,” he said.

Cole, 16, a left-sided full-back and centre-back, continued: “I feel privileged to have received a call-up to represent my country and connect with my heritage, and I hope to be involved going forward.”

“I’ve enjoyed it because it offers a different perspective on football; European football significantly differs from African football due to the greater drive and determination among players aspiring to succeed here compared to their European counterparts.”

Regarding the trip, he mentioned, “This experience has given me insight into the reality of men’s football in terms of physicality, speed, and tenacity. I believe I’ve managed to keep pace with the older players, and I was chosen to be in the starting lineup against Morocco the other day.”

Attacker Abu Kamara helps Hull City earn a point at the Hawthorns
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Attacker Abu Kamara helps Hull City earn a point at the Hawthorns

Sierra Leone native Abu Kamara scored the equaliser as West Bromwich Albion was held to a 1-1 draw against Hull City, marking their 18th draw of the season.

Isaac Price gave Albion a deserved lead with a left-footed volley that went in off the post. The hosts nearly opened the scoring earlier when John Swift hit the crossbar.

However, Hull equalized through substitute Abu Kamara, who scored from Kasey Palmer’s knockdown of Lewie Coyle’s cross. Hull almost took the win late on, but Joe Wildsmith made a brilliant save from Brazilian playmaker Lincoln.

Albion, which has drawn more than any other team in the top four tiers, sits sixth, just above Bristol City on goal difference. With their unbeaten streak now at four games, Hull has seen their buffer over the relegation zone shrink to three points.

West Brom manager Tony Mowbray expressed frustration over not converting enough chances: “We had 16 shots but only three on target, which is not good enough. We need to improve our final product.”

Hull City’s Ruben Selles acknowledged West Brom’s quality: “They were more in control in the first half, but we responded well and created chances in the second half. It was a fair point for both teams.”

Juma Bah named in Sierra Leone's new head Mohamed Kallon first squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Juma Bah named in coach Mohamed Kallon’s first Sierra Leone squad

Sierra Leone’s new head coach, Mohamed Kallon, has announced his 25-man squad, which includes experienced striker Kei Kamara and the exciting Manchester City defender Juma Bah, who is currently on loan to Lens in France.

The Leone Stars are poised to continue their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a double-header. They are aiming for a spot in next year’s World Cup Finals, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Sierra Leone will encounter a tough matchup against Guinea-Bissau in the capital of Liberia on March 20, prior to moving on to face Group A leaders Egypt. Significantly, the squad will be without recent goal scorers Amadou Bakayoko and Augustus Kargbo, who is out due to a hamstring injury.

The squad consists of nine foreign-based players and a majority of home-based stars. Momoh Kamara, who played a pivotal role in helping Sierra Leone reach the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in history, has also been included.

First-time call-up players include defender Edward Bello Yillah of Mighty Blackpool, attacker Momoh Dumbuya from FC Kallon, midfielder James Kayamba and defender Citta Bah from Star Sport Academy, keeper Dauda Bangura from East End Lions, midfielders John B. Sesay and Mohamed Bangura from Bhantal FC.

The former Inter Milan and Monaco striker is focused on leading the Leone Stars to positive results this month in the Group A 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Mohamed Kallon squad predominately home stars 16 and 9 foreign stars - For the first time in many years!
Mohamed Kallon squad predominately home stars 16 and 9 foreign stars - For the first time in many years!
Jonathan Moses Sesay receives England U18 call-up
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Jonathan Moses Sesay receives England U18 call-up

Head coach Liam Bramley has chosen Jonathan Moses Sesay, who plays for Southampton, for the England men’s under-18 team. This squad has 23 players and is preparing for the international matches in March.

Sesay recently signed his first professional contract with Southampton. He will travel with the Young Lions to compete against Czechia, France, and Portugal. These games mark the start of the under-18 team’s calendar year.

The first match will be against Czechia at Estadio de Sao Miguel on Friday, March 21, at 5 PM GMT. The team will then play France on Sunday, March 23, at 3 PM GMT at Sport Clube Freamunde.

Finally, England will face Portugal on Tuesday, March 25, at 11 AM GMT at the Municipal Stadium Futbol.

Defender Abdul Jarju Kabia to miss Sierra Leone qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Abdul Jarju Kabia to miss Sierra Leone qualifiers

Sierra Leone defender Abdul Jarjue Kabia is set to miss upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Guinea Bissau and Egypt this month due to a groin injury.

The injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined for three to four weeks, occurred during a goalless draw against Torpedo Zhodino in the Belarus Cup quarter-final on March 2nd.

Since making his debut for the Sierra Leone national team in late 2023, Kabia has participated in eight official matches, showcasing his skills in games against Ethiopia, Egypt, and Burkina Faso as part of the African qualification process for the World Cup.

Sierra Leone faces a tricky match against Guinea-Bissua in the Liberia capital on March 20 before travelling to face a difficult task against Group A leaders Egypt.

Mustapha Bundu helps ten-man Plymouth beat Portsmouth
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mustapha Bundu helps ten-man Plymouth beat Portsmouth

Sierra Leone International Mustapha Bundu recorded his sixth of the season as ten-man Plymouth held on to defeat Portsmouth, securing their first away win of the season and moving within three points of safety.

Argyle deserved the points against their hosts, who had recently beaten league leaders Leeds. Fit-again Ryan Hardie’s brilliant backheel set up Mustapha Bundu to score the opener just before halftime. Hardie then doubled the lead four minutes after the break, racing from halfway and drilling the ball inside the near post.

Plymouth finished the match with 10 players after Matthew Sorinola received a second yellow card in the 86th minute. Adil Aouchiche later netted a stunning consolation goal for Portsmouth three minutes later.

Although the Greens remain at the bottom of the league, this win represents their first victory on the road since last April and places them three points away from safety. Portsmouth, on the other hand, is still seven points clear of the drop zone despite suffering just their second home defeat in 13 games.

Unsurprisingly, John Mousinho kept the same Portsmouth starting XI that played well in their 1-0 victory over Leeds on Sunday. In contrast, Argyle boss Miron Muslic made four changes from their disappointing 3-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday.

There were 11 minutes of added time at the end of the match, during which Bramall had a shot charged down in the box as Portsmouth pressed for an equalizer. However, they couldn’t find the goal, and Plymouth extended their unbeaten streak against Portsmouth to eight matches, ending a 41-year record of 20 consecutive away games without a win.