Category: Players Abroad News

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Defender Osman Kakay makes Boavista debut in defeat to Vitória Guimarães
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Osman Kakay makes Boavista debut in defeat to Vitória Guimarães

Sierra Leone defender Osman Kakay made his Boavista debut in a 2-1 defeat to Vitória Guimarães on Saturday at the Estádio do Bessa.

The former QPR right-back was substituted on in the 57th minute to replace Ilija Vukotic during a thrilling second half, as Vitória SC secured a 2-1 victory against Boavista FC at Estádio do Bessa Sec. XXI in Round 25 of Liga Portugal Betclic.

Van Ginkel converted a penalty just before half-time, giving the black-and-whites the lead. However, an own goal by Vukotic in the 50th minute equalized the score.

Later in the match, another penalty was awarded, this time in favor of the Guimarães team. Tiago Silva successfully converted it in the 76th minute, sealing the victory for Luís Freire’s men.

With this win, Vitória SC now has 38 points and occupies sixth place in the standings, while Boavista FC remains at the bottom with just 15 points.

Blackburn winger Augustus Kargbo doubtful for Sierra Leone qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Blackburn winger Augustus Kargbo doubtful for Sierra Leone qualifiers

Blackburn winger Augustus Kargbo is set to miss crucial matches for Sierra Leone this month against Guinea-Bissau and Egypt due to a hamstring injury he sustained on Saturday.

Head coach Valerien Ismael confirmed the news about Kargbo’s injury but expressed hope that it won’t keep the Sierra Leone international out for an extended period.

The 25-year-old winger started the Sky Bet Championship match against Derby County on Saturday but was forced to leave the game after just 15 minutes. He was replaced by Dion Sanderson.

“We have another injury with AK [Kargbo], a muscle injury, and he’ll be out for a few weeks,” Ismael revealed to RoversTV.

A more detailed examination is required to determine the severity of Kargbo’s injury. Sierra Leone will host Guinea-Bissau in Monrovia, Liberia, on March 20, before traveling to Cairo to face the group leaders, the Pharaohs of Egypt, five days later.

Striker Ibrahim Kargbo pens FC BATE Borisov deal in Belarus
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Ibrahim Kargbo pens  FC BATE Borisov deal in Belarus

Promising 25-year-old Sierra Leone native, Ibrahim Kargbo has recently joined the ranks of the “yellow-blues,” igniting excitement among fans of FC BATE Borisov in Belarusian Premier League.

Kargbo’s journey to Europe began at just eight years old when he moved with his father, Ibrahim Kargbo Sr., a skilled footballer and former captain of the Sierra Leone national team who proudly gained Belgian citizenship.

In Belgium, amid the bustling streets of Antwerp, young Ibrahim honed his skills at the Beerschot academy, where the scent of fresh grass and the thrill of competition filled the air. In 2015, following his father’s move to England, Ibrahim ventured into the English football scene, training at renowned clubs like Reading and Crystal Palace.

In 2018, Kargbo took a significant step in his career by signing his first professional contract with Roeselare, a club competing in the second Belgian division. Just a year later, he transferred to Lierse, a team adorned in historic colours, where he showcased his talent on the field in the third Belgian division.

This period proved pivotal as he earned the opportunity to represent the Belgian junior team, competing in more than a dozen thrilling matches, each one a stepping stone to greater heights.

Kargbo’s career took a dramatic turn at the end of 2019 when he signed a long-term contract with Dynamo Kyiv. However, his initial excitement was tempered by FIFA regulations, which barred him from playing in the first half of 2020 due to his previous contracts with Roeselare and Lierse.

After months of anticipation, he finally made his official debut in June 2020 during the semi-final of the Ukrainian Cup against Minaj. He entered the match as a substitute and celebrated a hard-fought 2-0 victory.

Despite his undeniable talent, Kargbo faced challenges in securing a permanent spot at Dynamo. He sought new opportunities through loan spells with Olimpik in Donetsk, Celje in Slovenia, and Doxa in Cyprus. In early 2023, Kargbo became a free agent and returned to Celje, ready to embrace new challenges and adventures. His journey continues, filled with the promise of exciting futures and uncharted territories in the world of football.

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.

Abu Kamara nets as Hull City defeat Mustapha Bundu's Plymouth Argyle
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Abu Kamara nets as Hull City defeat Mustapha Bundu’s Plymouth Argyle

Joe Gelhardt and Abu Kamara scored in the second half, leading the City’s Tigers to a win 2-0 at the MKM Stadium in the English Championship on Tuesday night over Plymouth Argyle.

This victory allowed Hull City to distance themselves from the Championship relegation zone. They are now five points clear, while a struggling Plymouth Argyle is six points away from safety.

Rubén Sellés made four changes to his lineup following Cardiff City’s recent defeat. Abu Kamara, João Pedro, Steven Alzate, and Gustavo Puerta were newly included, while Eliot Matazo, Matt Crooks, Lincoln, and Regan Slater were benched.

The Tigers created several chances early on, including Gelhardt’s free-kick that hit the defensive wall and missed headers from Puerta and McLoughlin. Conor Hazard made key saves to keep Plymouth in the game.

In the 48th minute, Gelhardt broke the deadlock, scoring after a deflected attempt. Coyle then assisted Kamara, whose cross led to Joseph’s initial shot being saved.

City extended their lead after an hour when Puerta set up Kamara for an easy finish into an open net. As the match neared its end, McLoughlin’s shot went over, and Plymouth’s attempts, including a header from Wright and a shot from Ogbeta, failed to find the net.

Mustapha Bundu’s team has not achieved an away victory in 18 Championship matches this season, scoring only six goals – and they never appeared close to breaking that dismal streak after going behind, even against a Hull team that holds the worst home record in the league.

Plymouth head coach Miron Muslic said: “We simply didn’t show up in a game that we knew was a big one for us.

“There are too many players who cannot deliver consistently the performances that we need to be competitive. The reality in the Championship is fighting for every inch on the pitch, and we missed this today completely.

“The second goal, with all due respect, this player (Pedro) is one-and-a-half metres offside. I think at this level we should see this.”

Sierra Leone's Mohamed Kabia set to join Serbian side Borac Čačak
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone’s Mohamed Kabia set to join Serbian side Borac Čačak

Sierra Leone midfielder Mohamed Kabia is set to join FC Borac Čačak in Serbia’s First League for the remainder of the season. The Serbian First League, sponsored by Mozzart Bet, is the second tier of professional football in Serbia.

As excitement builds around his arrival, Borac Čačak is expected to conduct an official unveiling ceremony soon, where they will confirm the specifics of his contract, outline expectations, and discuss his potential role within the squad moving forward.

The 21-year-old player, known for his robust style of play and versatility, is also capable of operating effectively as a centre-back. A close source has disclosed that the midfielder finalized his transfer yesterday, and an official announcement from the club is anticipated shortly, detailing the terms of his contract.

This transfer marks an important milestone in Kabia’s career. He has previously gained recognition for his impressive performances in both domestic leagues and international competitions, showcasing his defensive prowess and ability to adapt to different playing styles.

By joining FC Borac Čačak, Kabia seeks to advance his career in European football. The club, known for its competitiveness in the Serbian first division, will benefit from his physical presence and tactical insight.

Alhassan Koroma's Al-Shahaniya suffer defeat to Al-Duhail
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Alhassan Koroma’s Al-Shahaniya suffer defeat to Al-Duhail

In an intense match at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, Al Shahaniya faced a tough defeat against Al-Duhail, finishing with a score of 1-2 after Week 17 of the Ooredoo Stars League.

On Friday, the Sierra Leone International, who scored in their 3-2 win over Umm Salal last Sunday, played the full throttle of the tie in the Qatari Stars Super League.  

Despite a spirited effort, Al-Shahaniya’s performance saw them unable to secure the win, which left their total points stagnant at 23, causing them to slip to seventh place in the league standings.

They now find themselves tied on points with Al-Rayyan and Al-Shamal, who occupy fifth and sixth places, respectively. Meanwhile, Al-Duhail’s victory allowed them to regain the top position in the league, boosting their points to 38.

The first half of the match was particularly noteworthy, as Al-Shahaniya successfully held Al-Duhail—currently leading the standings—scoreless through 45 minutes. However, the tide turned just after the break when Michael Olunga netted Al-Duhail’s first goal in the 46th minute, placing pressure on Al-Shahaniya to respond.

The home team equalized in the 65th minute with a penalty conversion from Petrus Amersfoort, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Unfortunately for Al-Shahaniya, just five minutes later, Karim Boudiaf scored again for Al-Duhail, reclaiming the lead with a well-timed goal in the 70th minute. The match turned contentious as tensions rose, culminating in the ejection of substitute referee Francesco Antonucci in the 90+9 minute.

Al-Shahaniya’s starting formation for the match featured Shahab Al-Laithi in goal, supported by a defensive line consisting of Mohamed Ibrahim, Mohamed Badr Sayyar, Mark Martinez, and Lotfi Madjer.

In the midfield, they lined up Petrus Amersfoort alongside Youssef Hani and Andreas van Beek, while their attacking front comprised Moaz Al-Wadiya, Ali Al-Omari, and Al-Hassan Koroma. Despite their efforts, the team’s inability to convert opportunities into goals ultimately led to their defeat on this occasion.

Chinese side Chengdu Rongcheng unveil Sierra Leone winger Issa Kallon
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Chinese side Chengdu Rongcheng unveil Sierra Leone winger Issa Kallon

Chinese Super League last season’s third-place side Chengdu Rongcheng has unveiled Sierra Leone winger Issa Kallon.

Kallon confirmed that he has reached an agreement for a two-year contract with Chengdu Rongcheng and is prepared for the upcoming Chinese Super League campaign.

The 29-year-old, who joined Shanghai Port from the Dutch club Cambuur in 2022, is embarking on a new chapter in his career after departing Nantong Zhiyun.

The Chinse Super League is set to kick start this week as Chengdu Rongcheng open its campaign against Wuhan Three Towns on Saturday.

The Sierra Leone International recorded seven goals and eight assists in 45 appearances for Shanghai Port when they won the title before moving to join Nantong Zhiyun in 2024, scoring five goals & two assists in 22 matches.

He scored on his debut for Nantong Zhiyun in the Chinese Super League opening game of the 2024/2025 season. Nantong Zhiyun played away from Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw in March last year.

He equalizer for Nantong Zhiyun in the 67th minute. He received a pass and slotted the ball at the bottom right of the net.

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.

Mustapha Bundu nets as Plymouth Argyle thrash Millwall
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mustapha Bundu nets as Plymouth Argyle thrash Millwall

Sierra Leone international Mustapha Bundu contributed to Millwall’s 5-1 defeat against Plymouth Argyle in the Sky Bet Championship on Wednesday night.

Plymouth took an early lead with an own goal and a penalty scored by Ryan Hardie. In the second half, Hardie and Bundu quickly added two more goals. Joe Bryan scored a late consolation for Millwall before Nikola Katic made it 5-1.

Head Coach Alex Neil changed the starting lineup from the last game, bringing in Camiel Neghli for Ra’ees Bangura-Williams.

Plymouth scored first after six minutes when an accidental deflection went in off Joe Bryan. Hardie then converted a penalty following a foul in the box, making it 2-0.

Millwall nearly scored immediately after, but Mihailo Ivanovic’s header was saved. Neghli had a long-range shot tipped over, and moments later, Plymouth scored again. Bundu scored the third goal for Plymouth by turning and shooting past the goalie.

After substitutions, Azeez’s free-kick was deflected wide. In the 80th minute, Millwall finally scored when Azeez set up Bryan. However, Katic rounded off Plymouth’s scoring with a goal in the last minutes of the match.

Goals: Bryan og 6, Hardie pen 10, Bundu 53, Hardie 56, Katic 87

Millwall Goal: Bryan 80

Osman Kakay raring to go with Primeira Liga side Boavista
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Osman Kakay raring to go with Primeira Liga side Boavista

The former Queens Park Rangers academy graduate Osman Kakay has signed with the Portuguese Primeira Liga team Boavista as a free agent and says he can’t wait to get back on the pitch after a long absence. 

“I’m happy to be back playing football after a long break. Joining a big club like Boavista is a great honour,” said the excited Sierra Leone international.

He added, “I can’t wait to get started and enjoy playing football again.” Boavista is a well-known club, and even though it’s been a long time since I last played, I’ve had the chance to reflect and I believe now is the right time to return.”

He made his first appearance for QPR in August 2016. He played out of position on the right side of midfield during an EFL Cup second-round win over Rochdale and was substituted after 73 minutes, earning applause from the QPR fans.

On January 31, 2017, Kakay signed a loan deal with Chesterfield until the end of the 2016–17 season. In November 2018, QPR offered him a contract extension, keeping him at Loftus Road until 2021.

On September 2, 2019, Kakay went on loan to Partick Thistle until January 2020. He mainly played as a right back there but often as a right winger.

On September 5, 2020, Kakay scored his first professional goal in an EFL Cup match against Plymouth Argyle and signed a contract extension until 2024. He netted his first Championship goal on May 1, 2021, in a 2–0 win over Stoke City. QPR announced on May 6, 2024, that Kakay would leave the club when his contract expired that summer.

  • On the International stage

Kakay made his international debut for Sierra Leone on September 9, 2018, in a match against Ethiopia during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

In December 2021, he was named in the Sierra Leone squad for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. This marked the country’s first participation in the tournament since 1996.

Kakay played the entire ninety minutes in his team’s opening match, where they managed to draw 0-0 with Algeria, the defending champions and one of the favourites to win.

Read related – Sierra Leone’s Osman Kakay to Boavista is Imminent.