Category: Sport News

Morocco advance after win over Tanzania in CHAN quarter-final
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco advance after win over Tanzania in CHAN quarter-final

Morocco defeated Tanzania 1-0 in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, ending Tanzania’s remarkable tournament run.

The match, held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, saw Oussama Lamlaoui score the sole goal in the 65th minute, assisted by Youssef Belammari.

The game was tightly contested, with Tanzania creating chances through Clement Mzize and Feisal Salum, but Morocco’s goalkeeper, El Mehdi Al Harrar, made crucial saves. As the match progressed, Morocco began to take control, with Lamlaoui being a constant threat.

Despite trailing, Tanzania continued to press for an equalizer, with Mzize nearly scoring with a header and substitute Nassor Saadun missing a late opportunity. Morocco’s defense, led by Mohamed Moufid and Mehdi Mchakhchekh, held firm to secure the win.

This victory marks Morocco’s seventh consecutive win in CHAN knockout rounds since 2014. Though their tournament ends at this stage, Tanzania can take pride in their achievement of reaching the quarter-finals for the first time, boasting the best defensive record and showcasing the potential of East African football.

Morocco now looks forward to the semi-finals in pursuit of their third title.

Madagascar stun co-hosts Kenya in penalty shootout
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Madagascar stun co-hosts Kenya in penalty shootout

Co-hosts Kenya of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), was shocked on Thursday as their team, the Harambee Stars, lost to Madagascar in a penalty shootout during the opening quarterfinal at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

Madagascar came back from a goal down to equalize, sending Kenya home after defender Alphonce Omija missed his penalty kick. As a result, they advanced to the CHAN semis after wining 4-3 on penalties at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi on August 22, 2025.

Madagascar defended strongly against a fierce Kenyan attack in the first half, with goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa making crucial saves. In the second half, Kenya took the lead when Boniface Muchiri’s free kick was headed in by Alphonce Omija in the 48th minute.

Madagascar quickly equalized with a penalty converted by Fenohasina Razafimaro after a handball by Kenya’s Lewis Esambe Bandi.

The match remained tied despite chances from both teams, leading to extra time, where Kenya struggled to break through Madagascar’s defense.

After no changes in score during extra time, the match went to penalties. Madagascar will face the winner of the Sudan-Algeria match in the semifinals at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Meanwhile, Tanzania will compete against Morocco in another quarterfinal on Thursday.

Striker Daniel Kanu joins Walsall on loan from Charlton Athletic
by FSL News

Striker Daniel Kanu joins Walsall on loan from Charlton Athletic

Sierra Leone International Daniel Kanu has joined League Two side Walsall on a season-long loan from Charlton Athletic in the Championship.

Daniel is 20 years old and came up through Charlton’s youth teams. He signed his first professional contract in February 2022 and made his senior debut that same month.

He stood out during the 2023-24 season by scoring three goals in his first four games. Daniel then had a one-month loan at Southend United in the National League, where he had a standout match, scoring four goals in a 5-0 win against Solihull Moors.

After returning to Charlton, he had another successful season, finishing with seven goals in Sky Bet League One. Overall, he has played 71 times for Charlton and has five senior caps for Sierra Leone, earning his first cap just after his 19th birthday.

Daniel is looking forward to his new challenge with us. “I’m really excited to be here and to get going,” he said. “I’ve been in contact with the coach for most of pre-season. They gave me a great presentation, which excited me. They will help me improve and get games, which is what I needed. I just can’t wait to get on the pitch and give my all. I had to wait a bit, but I’m really excited to be here, to get started, and to score some goals.”

Head Coach Mat Sadler is happy to strengthen the team’s attack. “I’m delighted that Charlton chose us as the best place for Daniel’s future. He has had success on loan at Southend and scored goals in League One. He is well-regarded at Charlton, and I have tried to sign him before. I’m glad everything worked out this time.

“We look forward to seeing him play. He is quick, likes to run behind defenses, and has a good eye for goal and finishing. We thank Charlton for their help in making this happen.”

Defender Alie Sesay returns to England to pens Morecambe deal
by Football Sierra Leone

Defender Alie Sesay returns to England and pens Morecambe deal

Sierra Leone International, Alie Sesay, 31, has returned to England to joined the Mazuma Mobile Stadium. The club said Sesay brings a lot of experience from playing in England, Europe, and Asia.

Sesay departed England eights years ago after spell with Barnet in 2017 – he started his career in the Leicester City Academy, where he got a professional contract and played at youth and reserve levels. He later played for Barnet and Cambridge United.

He has also played in Greece, Sweden, Albania, and Indonesia. He represented Sierra Leone in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Manager Ashvir is excited about Sesay joining the team. He said, “I’m delighted to have Alie. He has played in the EFL and spent the last few years abroad to gain different football experiences.

“He will help us compete and win games in the National League. Alie is a leader and a professional who sets a good example for younger players. Sesay will join the squad as they prepare for the new season.”

Brøndby IF and Vaasan Palloseura in talks over loan deal for young keeper Wurie Jalloh
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Brøndby IF and Vaasan Palloseura in talks over loan deal for young keeper Wurie Jalloh

On Friday, the Finnish media MTV Urheilu reported that Brøndby’s young goalkeeper Mamadou Jalloh will be loaned to Vaasan Palloseura in the top division in Finland, accordng to 3Point.DK

Mamadou Jalloh has risen through the ranks in Brøndby Masterclass, where he has most recently been a central figure in the U19 team.

The loan agreement with the Finnish club is valid for the rest of the season and with an option for a 12-month extension.

The agreement has not yet been officially confirmed by any party. This move aims to help him gain more experience, building on his impressive performances for the Sierra Leone U20 Cup of Nations team.

Vaasan Palloseura, known as VPS, is a football club from Vaasa, Finland. The team plays in the top league of Finnish football called Veikkausliiga. Jussi Nuorela is the club’s manager. VPS holds its home matches at Hietalahti.

by Football Sierra Leone

Co-hosts Tanzania to face an uphill task against Morocco in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is set to host a quarterfinal showdown as co-hosts Tanzania take on Morocco at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, one of the most successful teams in the history of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), in a highly anticipated match on Friday.

This encounter will mark the first-ever meeting between Tanzania and Morocco at CHAN, and it will also be Tanzania’s first match against a North African team in the tournament.

Tanzania will be playing their 11th game at CHAN, while Morocco will be their 10th different opponent in the competition.

Morocco has faced East African teams six times, with a record of three wins, two draws, and one loss. Their wins include victories over Uganda (3-0 in 2014, 5-2 in 2020) and Rwanda (4-1 in 2016), along with draws against Rwanda (0-0 in 2020) and Sudan (0-0 in 2018).

In this tournament, their only defeat was a 1-0 loss to Kenya. This match marks Morocco’s first knockout round encounter with an East African team and will be their 21st opponent at CHAN.

Morocco will face a tournament host for the fourth time, having previously beaten Rwanda (4-1 in 2014) and Cameroon (4-0 in 2020), but lost to Kenya this year.

Tanzania has shown strong defence, conceding only one goal—the fewest in the tournament—while Morocco boasts a powerful attack, scoring eight goals, the highest in the competition.

Morocco has an 18.6% shot conversion rate, scoring eight goals from 23 shots on target, while Tanzania has a conversion rate of 10.42%, with five goals from 17 shots. Additionally, Tanzania leads in defence with 45 tackles, compared to Morocco’s 29.

Attacker Idriss Kanu features in Barnet's first win of the season
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Attacker Idriss Kanu features in Barnet’s first win of the season

Sierra Leone International Idriss Kanu featured as Barnet secured their first win of the season with a 2-0 victory over Swindon Town, thanks to late goals from Dennis Adineran and Emmanuel Osadebe.

Kanu, 25, was playing for the Bees in his fourth game after the team lost all three of their opening matches this season.

The match began with Barnet facing early pressure but goalkeeper Cieran Slicker made crucial saves.

Despite several scoring opportunities from Barnet, including chances from Callum Stead and Ollie Hawkins, they remained scoreless until the second half.

After making impactful substitutions, Osadebe scored to give Barnet the lead, followed by Adineran’s goal just before the match ended, solidifying their win.

Idris Kanu joined The Bees in September 2022 after transferring from Peterborough United. Kanu began his career in the West Ham United academy before moving to Aldershot Town in 2016.

Following one season, Kanu signed with Peterborough United. The forward appeared in 69 matches for The Posh, including games in the Championship. He subsequently had loan spells at Port Vale, Boreham Wood, and Northampton before making a permanent move to The Bees last season.

Kanu has also represented Sierra Leone at the international level in the national team.

Two goals in four games for Sierra Leone's Josh Koroma
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Two goals in four games for Sierra Leone’s Josh Koroma

Sierra Leone International Josh Koroma has recorded two goals in his last four games for London League One side Leyton Orient, helping his side to their second win of the new campaign.

Leyton Orient secured a 1-0 victory against Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night, making it seven points from their first four League One matches.

Koroma scored the only goal of the game in the second half, marking his 99th league appearance for the O’s. This win also marked Orient’s first success in Plymouth since 2017.

Head Coach Richie Wellens made two changes to the starting lineup, with Michael Craig and Tyreeq Bakinson in the team. After a goalless first half, Orient created more chances in the second period.

Koroma capitalised on a well-placed ball from O’Neill to score in the 63rd minute. Despite some late pressure from Plymouth, Orient held on for the win and will next face Mansfield Town on Saturday.

The former Huddersfield man has been instrumental since his return to Orient, scoring two goals from his last four matches.

Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26 for Egypt and Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ethiopia’s Mesay Teferi names 26 for Egypt and Sierra Leone

In readiness for the next World Cup qualifying games against Egypt and Sierra Leone, Ethiopia’s national football team coach, Mesay Teferi, has revealed the call-up of 26 players.

Since Ethiopia has had difficulty holding home games due to poor stadium amenities, the squad will play its home qualifiers in neutral sites like Morocco; therefore, these matches will be vital.

The squad will be aiming to secure valuable points as they face Group A leaders Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium on September 4th, followed by a match against Sierra Leone on September 8th.

Currently, Ethiopia is in fourth place in its group with six points, trailing Sierra Leone by two points.

They drew with Sierra Leone in the qualfiers opener at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium, El Jadida but suffered a 2-0 to defeat at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca in March 2025 to Egypt in their fist meeting.

The upcoming matches represent a significant opportunity for Ethiopia to improve their standing in the qualifiers.

Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26-man squad for Egypt and Sierra Leone
Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26-man squad for Egypt and Sierra Leone
Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header

Guinea-Bissau has announced five new player allegiance switches for the upcoming CAF World Cup Qualifiers against Sierra Leone and Djibouti, as new head coach Emiliano Té named his provisional squad.

Notable players on the list, Celton Biai, Opa Sanganté, Nanú and Mama Baldé, are back for the crucial matches.

Té, who has been appointed as the new head coach of the Djurtus (the national team of Guinea-Bissau), has included Adramane Cassamá (AC Oulu, Ronaldo Vieira San Jose, Tomás Mendes Alverca In Photo, Midana Cassamá (Dibba), Flávio Silva Kaizer Chiefs, Marculino Ninte CD Mafra and Coba da Costa (Getafe) in preparation for matchdays seven and eight of the qualifiers on the 4th and 8th September, respectively.

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.

Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
Guinea-Bissau's new head coach Emiliano Té has named seven new faces in his provisional squad for Sierra Leone and Djibouti
Guinea-Bissau's new head coach Emiliano Té has named seven new faces in his provisional squad for Sierra Leone and Djibouti