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Sierra Leone open U17 girls qualifiers with a win over Senegal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone open U17 girls qualifiers with a win over Senegal

Sierra Leone's U17 girls made a significant impact by defeating Senegal 2-1 in their opening match of the WAFU CAF qualifiers held in the Liberian capital on Wednesday.

Marian Sankoh opened the scoring with a brilliant long-range strike in the 20th minute, giving Sierra Leone an early lead. However, Senegal responded, equalising in the 61st minute thanks to a goal from Ndeye Haby Barro.

As both teams fought hard for a winner, it was Sierra Leone’s Mareray Turay who ultimately made the difference. In the 78th minute, she headed home a well-placed pass from the left wing, beating the Senegalese goalkeeper and sealing the victory for her team.

Woman of the Match Game 1: Marian Sankoh and the victory have placed Sierra Leone in an advantageous position as they prepare to take on the host nation, Liberia, this Friday at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium.

Sierra Leone is scheduled to play against Liberia on Friday, September 19. Following this match, they will face Senegal on September 23 and conclude their campaign with another match against Liberia on September 25.

Sierra Leone open U17 girls qualifiers with a win over Senegal
Sierra Leone open U17 girls qualifiers with a win over Senegal
On Wednesday, Sierra Leone and Senegal before their opening action at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium.
On Wednesday, Sierra Leone and Senegal before their opening action at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium.
Sierra Leone and Senegal players battled for the ball on Wednesday
Sierra Leone and Senegal players battled for the ball on Wednesday
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.

Sierra Leone edge Ethiopia in Group A World Cup qualifier
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone edge Ethiopia in Group A World Cup qualifier

Sierra Leone secured a 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in their Group A World Cup qualifiers, giving themselves a slim possibility of reaching the playoffs.

Momoh I Kamara scored for Sierra Leone in the 37th minute, capitalising on a smart pass from Sallieu Tarawallie. Substitute Alhassah Koroma sealed the victory for the home team in extra time.

Blackburn Rovers attacker Kargbo came close for Sierra Leone with his strike, which hit the crossbar before flying over.

The host enjoyed much possession in the opening exchanges at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium, with Blackburn Rovers winger Augustus Kargbo, Momoh Kamara and skipper Mustapha Bundu being the most dangerous in attack and making life difficult for the Ethiopians.

Under a sunny sky at Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium, the hosts displayed promising moments against their opponents, effectively controlling and moving the ball all around the pitch.

Head coach Mohamed Kallon made five changes to his squad that were held in Guinea-Boissau 1-1 last Thursday, aiming to maximise his squad as the likes of Kei Kamara, Buya Turay, and Alhassan Koroma all named on the bench as Leone Stars settled with a 1-0 lead in the first half.

After the recess, the visitors tried many tactics but couldn’t find the back of the net. Sierra Leone’s Buya Turay nearly scored from a direct free kick, as the ball hit the crossbar and went over.

Alhassan Koroma finally got the second for the Leone Stars in extra time, sending the fans into ecstasy. 

These three vital points are crucial for coach Kallon’s team as they prepare to challenge Burkina Faso and Djibouti in October for the final two matches of the qualifiers.

Egypt is leading Group A with 19 points, followed by Burkina Faso with 14 points and Sierra Leone with 12 points. Guinea-Bissau is in fourth place after their recent 2-0 win over Djibouti, which is at the bottom of the table with only 1 point.

Substitutions

90+3 substitution for Sierra Leone. Mohamed Billoh Kabba comes on for Emmanuel Samadia.

90+3 substitution for Sierra Leone. Musa Kamara comes on for Saidu Fofanah.

76′ Substitution for Ethiopia. Dawa Hotessa comes on for Wogene Gezahegn.

70′ substitution for Sierra Leone. Mohamed Buya Turay comes on for Momoh Kamara.

70′ substitution for Ethiopia. Suleiman Hamid comes on for Bereket Desta.

64′ substitution for Sierra Leone. Alhassan Koroma comes on for Mustapha Bundu.

64′ substitution for Sierra Leone. Comes on for Augustus Kargbo.

46′ substitution for Ethiopia. Ahmed Reshid comes on for Asrat Tonjo.

46′ substitution for Ethiopia. Kenean Markneh comes on for Abdulkerim Worku.

46′ substitution for Ethiopia. Bereket Wolde comes on for Mohammed Abera.

Egypt is leading Group A with 19 point followed by Burkina Faso with 14 points and Sierra Leone with 12 points ahead of next month's doubleheader
Egypt is leading Group A with 19 point followed by Burkina Faso with 14 points and Sierra Leone with 12 points ahead of next month's doubleheader
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
Confirmed - Tyrese Fornah to miss Ethiopia crucial contest
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Confirmed – Tyrese Fornah to miss Ethiopia crucial contest

Northampton Town FC’s Tyrese Fornah has returned to England to address a family emergency, as confirmed by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA).

Sierra Leone played to a 1-1 draw against Guinea-Bissau, with striker Kei Kamara scoring a long-range header, which was equalised by Bissau captain Mama Balde.

Fornah, 25, was instrumental in the draw against Bissau at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro on Thursday, and his absence will be crucial in Tuesday’s clash with The Walia Ibex.

Ahead of their match against Ethiopia, head coach Mohamed Kallon is continuing preparations for the crucial Matchday Eight World Cup qualifiers, scheduled to be held in the Liberian capital on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Leone Stars’ camp in Monrovia has been revitalised by the arrival of Musa Kamara (Ports Authority striker) and Mohamed Kamara (Bai Bureh Warriors). These midfielders have joined the team in advance of the important FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Ethiopia.

In another development, Guinea-Bissau could surpass Sierra Leone in Group A with a win against Djibouti later this afternoon.

Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone share points in World Cup qualifier
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone share points in World Cup qualifier

Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau battled to a tense 1-1 draw in their quest for a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held at the vibrant Estadio Nacional 24 de Setembro on Thursday.

The opening half was charged with intensity as both teams sought to establish dominance, with the home side employing a relentless high press that set the tone for the match.

OCG Nice’s defender Abdulai Juma Bah had to be substituted early in the second half after picking up an injury. The first significant opportunity of the match came from Mama Balde, whose powerful strike was expertly saved by Sierra Leone’s goalkeeper, Alhaji Sesay, signalling a bright start for the home team.

As the match neared halftime, Sierra Leone began to find their groove. The crowd was stunned when veteran striker Kei Kamara leapt above the defenders to deliver a brilliant header from a distance, sending the ball crashing into the net and lifting the spirits of their fans just before the break.

The second half saw Guinea-Bissau come back with renewed vigour. After a series of missed chances, Mama Balde struck the equaliser in the 74th minute, firing a powerful shot from inside the box that bulged the net, sparking wild celebrations among the travelling supporters and levelling the score at 1-1.

As the game progressed, both teams made strategic substitutions; Kamara and Augustus Kargbo made way for Mohamed Buya Turay and Momoh Kamara. Emmanuel Samsadi’s well-taken free kick was skillfully parried away by the agile home goalkeeper. Ultimately, neither side could find a breakthrough.

In the group stage, Egypt leads the table with 16 points and will host fifth-placed Ethiopia on Friday at the Cairo Stadium, while Burkina Faso, sitting in second with 11 points, will head to Djibouti, who are at the bottom of the group.

Kei, Alhassan and Augustus to spearhead Sierra Leone's attack
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kei, Alhassan and Augustus to spearhead Sierra Leone’s attack

Veteran forward Kei Kamara, Blackburn Rovers winger Augustus Kargbo, and Qatar-based striker Alhassan Koroma will spearhead Sierra Leone’s attack as they face Guinea-Bissau in Group A of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.  

Coach Kallon retains his midfield duo of Tyrese Fornah and Abu Dumbuya. In the defence, Osman Kakay is making his debut with the current coaching staff, accompanied by Abdulai Juma Bah, Alpha Turay, and Salliue as Keeper Alhaji Sesay continues in goal.

At present, the visitors sit third in the group with eight points, two points ahead of their opponents.  

Both teams are eager to enhance their qualification prospects for a chance to participate in the 2026 World Cup. In their last meeting, Sierra Leone claimed victory with a score of 3-1 in the Liberian capital back in March.

Sierra Leone listed team for Guinea Bissau
Sierra Leone listed team for Guinea Bissau
Preview: Steep contest as Sierra Leone set to battle Guinea-Bissau
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Preview: Steep contest as Sierra Leone set to battle Guinea-Bissau

At Estadio 24 de Setembro, the two nations aim to raise their ranks in the CAF World Cup qualifiers as they battle it out on Thursday afternoon, as Guinea-Bissau welcomes Sierra Leone.

An intriguing tie that will offer both West African nations a chance to get back on track with a win. Hosts Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone are in the hunt for their first-ever World Cup appearance to be played in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

Hosts Djurtus are going into this contest with six points from six matches, but they’re hoping to build on that. Especially after losing their last two matches to Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso in March, this might look like a way to get themselves back on track.

Guinea-Bissau sits fifth in Group A, five points behind second-place team Burkina Faso and two points adrift of Thursday’s opponent Sierra Leone.

Since their last qualifying game against Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau has lost friendly matches against Burundi and Gabon, making it seven straight losses. They have not won in ten games across all competitions since their last victory, a 1-0 win against Eswatini in September 2024.

Head coach Mohamed Kallon’s side is in full gear as they seek their first World Cup spot with a slim chance to qualify for next year’s event in North America. Their qualifying campaign has been mixed, with two wins, two draws, and two losses. Their most recent game was a 1-0 loss to Egypt.

Sierra Leone has only one clean sheet in their last six games in the race, which has been a big problem for them. They need to improve defensively as they head into the final four qualifiers starting tomorrow.

The likes of Augustus Kargbo from English Championship side Blackburn Rovers, Hannover attacker Mustapha Bundu, veteran attacker Kei Kamara, who recently celebrated his 41st birthday, are expected to be key to Sierra Leone winning in Bissau.

Nineteen-year-old Abdulai Juma Bah is set to earn his third cap for the visitors after an impressive couple of months, during which he also secured a loan move to Nice from Manchester City.

A recap of the qualifiers: The nine Group victors will be eligible for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Second round (playoff): The four top group runner-ups will be drawn into playoffs to decide the CAF representative at the interconfederation playoffs to determine which six teams will play in a playoff event – one each from AFC, CAF, CONMEBOL, and OFC, plus two from CONCACAF – the last two World Cup spots available.

Guinea-Bissau suffered a 3-1 defeat to Sierra Leone in the World Cup qualifier matchday five in the Liberian Capital, Monrovia, in March.
Guinea-Bissau suffered a 3-1 defeat to Sierra Leone in the World Cup qualifier matchday five in the Liberian Capital, Monrovia, in March.
Guinea Bissau during Tuesday's training session at the Estadio 24 de Setembro
Guinea Bissau during Tuesday's training session at the Estadio 24 de Setembro
Osman Kakay, Mohamed Buya Turay return to Sierra Leone squad for World Cup qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Osman Kakay, Mohamed Buya Turay return to Sierra Leone squad for World Cup qualifiers

Head Coach Mohammed Kallon has announced a 26-man Leone Stars team for Sierra Leone’s next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Guinea-Bissau and Ethiopia on 4th and 9th August, 2025 respectfully.

The squad consists of foreign-based and home-based players chosen specifically to create a strong team battling to represent the country with pride.

Kosice defender Osman Kakay is back on the Sierra Leone national team. He last played against Zambia in the AFCON qualifiers. Mohamed Buya Turay, who has been away from the team for a long time, is also included in the squad for next month’s matches.

Head coach Mohamed Kallon listed six new faces – the 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥-𝐮𝐩𝐬 are 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗵 (SLIFA FC), 𝗔𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗗𝘂𝗺𝗯𝘂𝘆𝗮 (East End Lions), 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘂 𝗝𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗵 – Sierra Leone U-20 goalkeeper, recently signed new deal at Brøndby IF before being sent on loan to Finland, 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚 (Port Authority), 𝗔𝗹𝗵𝗮𝗷𝗶 𝗟. 𝗝𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗵, (Luawa FC) and 𝗠𝗼𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗕. 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝗮𝘆 (FC Kallon).

The first contest against Sierra Leone will be officiated by a team of referees from the Ivory Coast at the Estadio 24 de Setembro in Bissau. The Djurtus are looking to avenge the 3-1 defeat suffered at Sierra Leone back in March in the Liberian Capital at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex.

Current Standings: Guinea-Bissau is two points adrift of Sierra Leone, currently in third place in their group with 8 points. Sierra Leone’s hopes for the USA, Canada, and Mexico 2026 World Cup are still alive, with just 15 days to go in the hunt to increase their point on the table.

https://twitter.com/bittar32/status/1961066180967338000

SLFA's president Babadi Kamara makes first CAF appearance
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

SLFA’s president Babadi Kamara makes first CAF appearance

Presently in Kampala, Uganda for the CAF Impact Strategic Roundtable workshop, Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President Babadi Kamara, together with Acting General Secretary, Ｍohamed Benson Bawoh, join global heads.

This event marks the inaugural appearance of the new SLFA president at a continental gathering that unites African football executives, focusing on governance, sustainable development, and initiatives aimed at transforming the game across the continent.

For the first time, CAF will bring together all 54 Presidents of Member Associations alongside their General Secretaries to a practical workshop aimed at strengthening financial governance, promoting youth competitions and driving impactful community outreach initiatives.

The participation of SLFA highlights President Kamara’s commitment to making Sierra Leone pivotal in the continent’s football reforms and developmental projects.

President Kamara is anticipated to meet with CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and other leaders of CAF Member Associations for a face-to-face strategic meeting on Saturday, August 30, 2025. This important meeting will coincide with the final of the CHAN Tournament.

The discussions in Nairobi will cover various crucial topics essential to the advancement of African football.

The CAF IMPACT sessions, held in three separate groups, will offer practical guidance on program goals, the rights and responsibilities of Member Associations, financial contributions and reporting, and measures to prevent the misuse of CAF IMPACT funds.

Sarah Mukuna, Director of Member Associations at CAF, stated: “This CAF IMPACT workshop is unprecedented, uniting Presidents and their administrative teams to collaboratively enhance governance and impact.

It demonstrates CAF’s dedication to providing our leaders with the necessary tools to make African football competitive and self-sustaining on a global scale.”