Category: Sport News

New dates confirmed for Sierra Leone Premier League (1)
by Kendol Decker

Sierra Leone football needs vision, strategy and competence

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) needs leadership that combines vision, strategy, and integrity—especially now, amid serious governance challenges.

I firmly believe that Sierra Leone has the potential to become a world-class football nation. Sadly, none of the current candidates in this election cycle have presented a clear or compelling vision for the future of our football. Our sports journalists also play a crucial role.

They must refrain from taking sides and instead uphold their responsibility to the public by interviewing candidates and asking them the tough, critical questions. It is deeply concerning that, throughout this campaign, none of the candidates have participated in a public interview or press engagement, with the sole exception of the outgoing president, who has since been disqualified.

As a nation, we are incredibly passionate about football, and our players are naturally gifted. There is no reason why football in Sierra Leone should not evolve into a revenue-generating, self-sustaining industry. With that in mind, I sincerely hope for a peaceful and transparent election today.

I also urge everyone to support whoever emerges as the winner, because our football cannot afford yet another setback. We are already several years behind where we should be.

To truly unlock football’s potential in Sierra Leone, the next SLFA president must consult with highly competent football development professionals to design a detailed 4–8 year development roadmap with SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals.

This plan should include:

  • 1. Comprehensive domestic league reform, including club licensing, structured youth academies, dedicated investment in women’s football, and continuous training and certification programs for administrative and technical staff.
  • 2. Sponsorship and commercialisation strategies to attract both local and international partners.
  • 3. National team development frameworks, spanning from the senior squads to youth categories.
  • 4. Infrastructure and governance improvements, leveraging FIFA resources while collaborating with the private sector, public institutions, government ministries and agencies, and the Sierra Leonean diaspora.

Finally, I strongly encourage the incoming president to prioritise merit-based hiring for both administrative and technical roles. This can be as simple as researching what qualifications and experience are required for a given position and hiring someone who fits that profile, regardless of their location or origin.

If the most qualified candidate happens to be from the diaspora or a foreign footballing nation, so be it. Our football deserves the best minds working in the right roles. Without a competent and professional team behind the scenes, Sierra Leonean football will continue to fall short of its potential.

Author: Kendol Decker, EMBA Sports Management, UEFA & USSF License Coach, MSc (Candidate) – Performance Football Analyst

Sierra Leone FA election set to go ahead amid squabbles
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone FA election set to go ahead amid squabbles

As 57 delegates of the Sierra Leone Football Association assemble on Saturday at the Gateway Hotel at the Tulun Road in Lungi Town, Sierra Leone, the stage is set for a crucial election.

This congress will decide who the next president of the association will be, a position vital for the course of football in the nation.

The road to this point has been fraught with difficulties. Originally slow and erratic, the election process followed the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) awarding temporary clearance to female candidate Ms. Aminata Bangura on July 31.

A request for court injunction was dismissed after the incumbent Thomas daddy Brima raised several concerns mostly as a result of disagreements on electoral processes that overshadowed the entire process.

Two more candidates—Babadi Kamara and Alhaji Umaru Bah—both vying for the coveted post alongside the only female candidate Ms. Bangura on the ballot. They will battle in the forthcoming elective conference planned for Port Loko on August 2.

After failing the Football Association’s integrity checks, Thomas Daddy Brima, the current incumbent, drops out of the race. He was without recourse because he could not obtain a court order to postpone the meeting.

With the election drawing close, disagreement hangs high and different groups claim political machination, delegates list manipulations and intimidation techniques.

Although CAS has not yet fixed the date of its final decision, it is expected that the ruling could take weeks as the delegates get ready to vote.

Zimbabwe's defender Isaac Mabaya joins Wigan Athletic
by FSL News

Zimbabwe’s defender Isaac Mabaya joins Wigan Athletic on loan

Defender Isaac Mabaya has joined Wigan Athletic on loan from Liverpool until the finish of the 2025/26 season. Having made his first-team debut for Liverpool last season against Plymouth Argyle, the 20-year-old is a former England youth international.

The Premier League, EFL, and FA must all agree with this loan agreement. Mabaya’s seventh acquisition of the Summer Transfer Window gives Wigan’s defense much-needed depth.

Preston native Mabaya started at Liverpool when he was six years old. Reaching the U18s at merely 16, he climbed the ranks of the youth team. Training and playing in Asia during Liverpool’s 2022/23 preseason, he impressed with the first team under Jürgen Klopp and grabbed notice.

Mabaya spent most of his time with Liverpool’s senior Academy squad demonstrating his excellent physical ability after signing his first professional contract in summer 2023. Having been on the bench for Liverpool’s Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven recently, he made his professional debut in an FA Cup match against Plymouth Argyle early in 2025.

He will start with Wigan Athletic until the close of the 2025–26 Sky Bet League One campaign. Having formerly played against Lowe’s team in preseason, he hopes to get priceless senior football experience.

“I am happy to be here and cannot wait to begin,” Mabaya said. I think I can contribute something to the team after discussing my expectations with the Head Coach. I find the Gaffer’s approach of play quite appealing; I have had several discussions with him. This is a perfect opportunity for my career to expand. I am anxious to perform in front of the fans because I understand the importance the Club carries. I’m eager to play for the supporters since I have heard how crucial they are and how wonderful the audience is!

Ryan Lowe, head coach, remarked, “I have known Isaac for years.” He feels ready to play even if he has several injuries. Knowing his caliber, I almost signed him when I was at Preston North End. A strong right wingback, he will help our right-side performance. We observed him play for Liverpool U21s and he is fit and enthusiastic to be here. We are delighted to have him and feel he would be a wonderful asset to the team.

Nigerian U20 international Victor Eletu extends AC Milan contract
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigerian U20 international Victor Eletu extends AC Milan contract

AC Milan has confirmed a contract extension for Nigerian U20 international Victor Eletu, therefore guaranteeing the midfielder’s future at the San Siro until at least 2027.

With a two-year extension maintaining him at the club until 2027 and an option for a third year, Eletu agreed to the extension before the 2025-26 season.

The 20-year-old continues to be a highly regarded prospect inside the Milan youth system despite a string of injuries. Italian transfer specialist Gianluca DiMarzio asserts that Eletu is considered essential to AC Milan’s plans. This fresh contract shows their dedication to his recovery and development.

Eletu was a great performer for AC Milan’s Primavera (U19) team before his injuries, where his strong midfield game and leadership qualities were praised.

The contract specifies a clear development path for Eletu as he will be included in the club’s newly created U23 team for the next season, which will be competing in Serie D. His role and new contract with the U23 team offer a clear road ahead for his development.

Though he saw no playing time, Eletu was among the AC Milan squad for one Serie A game and two Europa League matches. On the global scene, he also distinguished himself as a key member of the Flying Eagles squad at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup.

Aminata Bangura back in SLFA's Presidential race after CAS ruling
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Aminata Bangura back in SLFA’s presidential race after CAS ruling

A provisional ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has reinstated Aminata Bangura in the race to contest the presidency of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) in Saturday’s elective congress.

Bangura was disqualified from the shortlist of four contenders after the SLFA alleged that she had falsified her police clearance. But she challenged the decision by filing an appeal with CAS last week. The matter is far from over, though, as the court points out in its six-page ruling, stating that a final ruling could affect Bangura’s appeal regardless of the outcome of the election.

The elective congress will take place in Port Loko on 2nd August with two other candidates on the ballot. Babadi Kamara and Alhaji Umaru Bah join Bangura in Saturday’s election. The incumbent, Thomas Daddy Brima, who was disqualified after the FA’s integrity checks, failed to win a court injunction to postpone the congress.

The process leading up to Saturday’s election has been fraught with controversy as various parties accuse each other of political interference and other dark tactics, including intimidation. It is unclear when a final ruling will be issued by CAS, but based on the stipulated timelines, it could take weeks to conclude.

Everton's move delights Moroccan International Adam Aznou
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Everton’s move delights Moroccan International Adam Aznou

New Everton arrival Adam Aznou has said that a chat with boss David Moyes convinced him to join the team. (Photo Everton)

The Morocco international signed with Everton on Tuesday for a cost of about €9 million, therefore ending his three-year tenure at Bayern Munich.

A graduate of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, Aznou relocated to Germany in 2022 and made his first-team debut for Bayern against Union Berlin on November 2, 2024.

Spending the second half of the 202425 season on loan at La Liga team Real Valladolid, the 19-year-old left-back made 13 appearances and gathered priceless experience.

Aznou expressed his anticipation about playing in what he thought to be the finest league in the world and described Everton’s new stadium as “perfect”.

“I’m so happy to be here. I am honoured to be a member of this team. The project they provided me is truly excellent,” the adolescent told evertontv. “I am very eager to get started as the Premier League is the top league in the world.” The stadium is lovely. For our supporters, it generates the perfect ambience. For us, it is ideal.

“Moyes discussed the team with me and how he expects me to help. I decided immediately following our chat. Encouraged by his words, I chose to sign.

Moyes remarked, “We are delighted to bring Adam to Everton. He is a young, gifted player with a great future. Finding left-backs is difficult, and we’re happy to have a young player who we hope will grow while at Everton.

Kumba Brima nets four goals on her UEFA Champions League debut
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kumba Brima nets four goals on her UEFA Champions League debut

Sierra Leone’s Kumba Zainab Brima had an outstanding UEFA Women’s Champions League debut, scoring four goals for Riga FC Women in the first qualifying round semi-finals held at the Stade Achille Hammerel stadium in Luxembourg.

Her goals came in the 11th, 18th, 24th, and 55th minutes during their 4-1 victory over FC Flora, an Estonian professional football club based in Tallinn. Kristina Teern scored in the 27th minute for Flora.

Brima, a key player for Riga’s women’s team, has a valuable opportunity to showcase her skills on a prominent stage. Recently, she scored a hat-trick in their 10-0 win against FC Metta.

The second semi-final of the tournament features Racing FC Union Luxembourg going up against AEK Athens at 20:00.

The winners will advance to the final, while the losers will compete for third place. Only the tournament champion will qualify for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo express pride in United move
by FSL News

Cameroon International Bryan Mbeumo happy to play for United

Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo expressed his pride in playing for Manchester United. The right winger, born in France, joined the club from Brentford in a deal worth about £65 million for five years, with an option for one more year. (Photo Rio Show)

He is the third Cameroonian to sign with Manchester United, following midfielder Eric Djemba-Djemba and current teammate Andre Onana.

In an interview with Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, Mbeumo shared how exciting it is to wear the team’s shirt. “I’m really proud because Manchester United has fans everywhere and is well-known around the world. When I return to Cameroon, it’s going to feel amazing,” Mbeumo said.

He was also asked about his inspiration in football. Mbeumo named four-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto’o as a key figure in his career. “Samuel Eto’o is a great player. He scored many goals, and that’s what I wanted to do. I am now scoring goals and helping my team win. He was a big inspiration for me,” Mbeumo added.

Bryan Mbeumo played for six seasons at Brentford and helped the team move up from the English Championship. He came through the Troyes academy and has played 22 times for the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, scoring six goals.

Moroccan forward Zakaria Aboukhlal pens move to Torino
by Football Sierra Leone

Moroccan forward Zakaria Aboukhlal pens move to Torino

Morocco national team forward Zakaria Aboukhlal has transferred to Italy’s Serie A side Torino on a four-year contract and aims to improve Torino’s attack, which struggled last season.

Torino announced the signing of Aboukhlal, 25, on Tuesday after bringing him in from Toulouse, a club in France, for €8.5 million.

They finished 11th in the 2024-25 Serie A season, scoring only 39 goals in 38 matches. Aboukhlal, who started his career at PSV, is a versatile forward known for his ability to play on either wing. His best season was in 2022-23, where he scored 10 goals and provided 5 assists in 37 matches for Toulouse.

He is skilled, quick, and strong on the ball, which gives Torino manager Marco Baroni several options to boost the team’s offense. Aboukhlal will compete for playing time with players like Ché Adams, Antonio Sanabria, and returning Colombian Duván Zapata. His versatility can help complement the team’s other goal scorers.

Before the season starts, Torino will play friendly matches against AS Monaco and Valencia. They will begin their season with a Coppa Italia game against Serie B club Modena on August 18.

Kumba Brima set for UEFA Champions League tie against FC Flora
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kumba Brima set for UEFA Champions League tie against FC Flora

Sierra Leone international Kumba Zainab Brima is set to compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League with FC Riga’s women’s team. They will face FC Flora in the semi-finals of Group I today in Luxembourg at 14:00 Estonian time.

Brima, who has been a key player since joining Riga’s ladies, has a valuable opportunity to showcase her skills on the big stage. The second semi-final of the tournament features Racing FC Union Luxembourg against AEK Athens at 20:00.

The winners will advance to the final, while the losers will compete for third place, with only the tournament champion qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League proper.

FC Flora midfielder Karola Purgats expressed confidence despite prior travel issues, emphasizing the team’s strong desire to win. She noted a previous loss to Riga FC but remains focused on the semi-final.

Coach Ljubov Maksimova highlighted the effective collaboration with head coach Aleksandra Ševoldajeva, who brings international experience and strategic insights.

The team is focusing on game situations and improving confidence. FC Flora has 18 players available, but Kristina Tullus and Eva-Maria Niidu are unlikely to participate due to injuries.