Category: Sport News

Nigeria through to quarter-finals after draw with Kenya in U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria through to quarter-finals after draw with Kenya in U20 AFCON

Nigeria secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations by drawing 2-2 with Kenya at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Wednesday.

With this result and Morocco’s 3-1 win over Tunisia in another Group B match, Nigeria finished second in the group with five points. Kenya ended their tournament with just one point from three games.

Though already eliminated, Kenya played well and took the lead twice. Kevin Injehu scored a penalty in the sixth minute after a handball by Emmanuel Chukwu was reviewed by VAR.

Nigeria quickly equalized when Kparobo Arierhi scored in the 13th minute after receiving a pass from Simon Cletus. Both teams created chances, and Kenya went ahead again in the 68th minute when substitute William Gitama scored from a set-piece.

But Nigeria equalized just five minutes later. Captain Daniel Bameyi scored a penalty after Rickson Mendos was fouled in the box. Nigeria tried hard for a win in the final minutes, with Divine Oliseh and Tahir Maigana both close to scoring, but Kenya’s defense held strong.

Kenya finished with one point, having scored in all three matches despite being eliminated. Morocco topped Group B with seven points, followed by Nigeria with five points, Tunisia with three, and Kenya with one.

Next, Nigeria will prepare for the quarter-finals and will face an opponent yet to be announced from another group.

Sierra Leone suffer first defeat in U20 Cup of Nations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone suffer first defeat in U20 Cup of Nations

South Africa showed their offensive power with a strong 4-1 win over Sierra Leone in their CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Group A match on Tuesday evening in Ismaila.

The match started with South Africa quickly taking control. Jody Ahshene scored the first goal in the 13th minute with a precise right-footed shot from outside the box, assisted by Shakeel April.

Sierra Leone tried to respond, but the first half ended with South Africa leading 1-0, thanks to their strong defense.

In the second half, Amajita increased their attacking efforts. Neo Rapoo scored the second goal in the 60th minute during a fast counter-attack led by Jody Ahshene.

Sierra Leone got one back in the 69th minute when Momoh Kamara scored from a cross by Osman Kamara, giving his team a boost of confidence.

However, South Africa quickly took back control. Substitute Thabang Mahlangu made a big impact by scoring two quick goals—first in the 86th minute with Neo Rapoo’s assist, and then in the 89th minute after a set piece involving Patrick Autata—securing a clear win for South Africa.

This win places South Africa in second place, while Sierra Leone remains at the top of Group A despite the loss.

TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON action continues on Wednesday with Nigeria playing Kenya and Tunisia facing Morocco, both matches expected to be exciting.

U20: Arsenal's Kamara, Reading defender Kanu start for Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

U20: Arsenal’s Kamara, Reading defender Kanu start for Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U20 head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara has made seven changes to his squad for Tuesday’s Cup of Nations final Group A match against South Africa, which kicks off at 9 PM local time at the Suez Canal Stadium.

Arsenal’s U21 player, Osman Kamara, an attacking midfielder, has been given the opportunity to make his mark in the squad with his first start. Osman made his U20 debut in the previous match, which ended in a draw against Zambia.

Goalkeeper Mamadou Wurie Jalloh has been rested, and Dauda Bangura from East End Lions will take his place. In defense, young defender Abraham Kanu will make his first start and appearance in the competition, partnering with Alpha Turay in central defense.

The Shooting Stars are the first team to reach the quarterfinals of the competition, but today’s match is also crucial for securing the top spot in their group.

In a 4-1-4-1 formation, Alusine Dumbuya replaces Sallieu Bah in midfield, Osman Kamara steps in for Mohamed Fofanah, Abraham Kanu takes the place of Saidu Bangura, Sheku Kallon replaces Alpha Kabia, and Sulaiman Kargbo comes in for Samuel Gandi.

A victory will see Sierra Leone become the winners of Group A in the race to the Chile 2025 U20 World Cup, as they await to learn their quarter-final opponent.

Sierra Leone's Hindolo Mustapha a target of top European clubs
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Hindolo Mustapha a target of top European clubs

Hindolo Mustapha, just 18 years old, is now drawing much more notice than his years. The gifted Sierra Leonean midfielder whose contract with Crystal Palace ends this summer has surfaced as among the most in demand candidates on the transfer market—and it’s clear why.

Mustapha has quietly enjoyed a standout season, with 24 appearances, 11 goals, and 6 assists to his name. However, statistics only tell part of the story. His composure on the ball, ability to control the tempo of the game, and skill in making decisive runs have attracted the interest of scouts across Europe.

He remains calm under pressure and fearless in attack, showcasing a level of maturity that is rare for someone his age.

Now, the race for his signature is intensifying. Sources close to the player indicate that multiple offers are on the table. While some clubs are considering loan moves, others are determined to secure a permanent deal.

Among the interested parties are two Dutch powerhouses: Ajax and Feyenoord, both renowned for nurturing young talent into world-class players.

For Mustapha, the decision ahead could significantly shape the next phase of a career that is already filled with promise.

Minnesota United FC sign Sierra Leone U20 star Momoh I Kamara on loan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Minnesota United sign Sierra Leone U20 star Momoh I Kamara on loan

Minnesota United has confirmed a one-year loan signing of Sierra Leone’s U20 Cup of Nations star Momoh I Kamara from Mattia Football Club through December 2025, with an option to buy. Once Kamara gets his P-1 Visa, he will be joining MNUFC2.

“Momoh is an exciting young player with a natural feel for the game, capable of creating scoring threats,” said Amos Magee, MNUFC’s Head of Development. “We look forward to him joining MNUFC2 and building on his national team succes,” the club said in their statement.

Kamara expressed his excitement about joining, stating, “This is a dream come true and a significant step forward in my career. I’m ready to give my all for the fans and my teammates.”

Khaled El-Ahmad, MNUFC Chief Soccer Officer, praised the recruitment team for successfully adding talent like Kamara, Putt, and Kabia, highlighting the promising future for the club.

Momoh Kamara began his playing career at a young age with Mattia FC, where he played from 2017 to 2022. He briefly played for Diamond Stars Football Club in 2022-2023 before moving to Leixões SC B, competing with the Portuguese team from 2023 to 2024. Following his time at Leixões, he returned to Mattia FC before joining MNUFC2.

Internationally, Kamara has represented Sierra Leone at nearly every level, starting with the U17 team and progressing to the U20 and senior national teams. He is currently competing alongside MNUFC2 teammate Alpha Kabia in the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In the first three matches of the group stage, Kamara has scored three goals, notably a hat trick against Egypt on April 30, helping propel his country to the top of the group and secure a berth in the quarterfinals. 

The 19-year-old also made appearances for the senior team in March 2025 during two FIFA World Cup qualifier games, playing in group stage matches against Guinea-Bissau and Egypt.

VITALS

  • Momoh Kamara
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Height: 5’7”
  • Date of Birth: 5/6/2005 (19 years old)
  • Place of Birth: Kambia Town, Sierra Leone
  • Hometown: East End, Freetown, Sierra Leone
  • Previous Club: Mattia Football Club
Momoh I. Kamara has won back-to-back Man of the Match awards in the ongoing U20 AFCON
Momoh I. Kamara has won back-to-back Man of the Match awards in the ongoing U20 AFCON
Noah Makanza's brace helps DRC's U20 Improve qualification chances
by Football Sierra Leone

Noah Makanza’s brace helps DRC’s U20 Improve qualification chances

DR Congo won 3-1 against the Central African Republic (CAR) in Group C of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. This victory helps DR Congo’s chances of reaching the knockout stage.

Noah Makanza scored two goals, and Samuel Ntanda added a late header to secure the win at the New Suez Stadium. With this result, DR Congo now has four points after an opening 1-1 draw with Ghana.

CAR took an early lead with a goal from Raphael Nzabakomada in the 10th minute. However, DR Congo quickly responded. After missing a first-half penalty, Makanza scored to equalize just minutes later, finishing the first half at 1-1.

DR Congo started the second half strong and took the lead five minutes in when Makanza scored his second goal with a close-range shot. Ntanda then closed the match with a goal in the 59th minute, heading in a cross from Messy Manitu after a fast counterattack.

Coach Guy Bukasa had told his team to stay focused and play aggressively to beat a strong team like CAR. The players listened well and played with discipline.

In the final minutes, CAR tried to come back with several shots, but they could not get past DR Congo’s defense. This result leaves CAR with only one point after two matches, having drawn with Senegal in their first game. Their chances of moving forward now depend on their last group match.

DR Congo, however, is in a good position as they prepare for their next match against the defending champions Senegal. The Congolese team remains unbeaten in the tournament and showed better teamwork, taking more shots on target and winning more duels during the game.

Later, Senegal faced Ghana in another important match in Group C.

𝐄𝐠𝐲𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢-𝐃𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐒𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐔𝟐𝟎 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

𝐄𝐠𝐲𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢-𝐃𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐔𝟐𝟎 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫

As part of an instructional outreach for the U20 Cup of Nations, the Egyptian Anti-Doping Organization, EGY-NADO, working in collaboration with the Confederation of African Football, which tests, educate, and support Egyptian athletes in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Agency, recently visited the Sierra Leone and the Egyptian U-20 team.

The EGY-NADO team talked to officials and players from both teams during the visit about the dangers related to taking any kind of forbidden drug as athletes. They offered direction on how to avoid consuming banned substances or employing unauthorized techniques by outlining the rights and responsibilities of athletes.

Fair play in sports means competing based on skill and training, not using performance-enhancing drugs. Speakers warned that banned substances can cause lasting harm and stressed that strict rules are essential to maintain fairness in sports.

EGY-NADO officials cautioned medical personnel and athletes alike regarding their right to know what they were putting into their bodies. They went on to detail a few of the prohibited drugs and techniques physicians and athletes must be aware of in order to safeguard the players’ welfare.

Among the prohibited drugs are steroids, EPO/blood doping agents, stimulants, diuretics, masking agents, and Beta-2 agonists. The presentation also addressed what qualifies as a Doping Violation (ADRVs), the procedures used in doping control, and who is qualified for testing.

Barren draw between Morocco and Nigeria in Group B U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Barren draw between Morocco and Nigeria in Group B U20 AFCON

Morocco and Nigeria’s Under-20 teams played to a 0-0 draw in a closely contested match in Group B at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium on Sunday. The game, part of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, was physical and tactical.

Both teams had chances to score, but neither could find the net during the 90 minutes. The match, officiated by Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda, included many fouls, stoppages, and missed opportunities.

Morocco almost scored in the second half, with Fouad Zahouani and Ayman Arguigue both missing headed chances from close range. Nigeria also had attempts, including a long shot from Israel Ayuma and a header from Emmanuel Chukwu, neither of which troubled the Moroccan goalkeeper.

Substitutions and injuries slowed the game, with players from both teams needing treatment late in the second half. Morocco’s Hossam Essadak and Nigeria’s Divine Oliseh had to leave the pitch limping.

With this result, both teams will have to wait longer to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Their final group matches will be crucial.

Next, Morocco will face Tunisia, while Nigeria will play Kenya.

AFCON U20 Group B standings after two matches played
AFCON U20 Group B standings after two matches played
Tunisia register first U20 Cup of Nations Group B victory
by FSL News

Tunisia register first U20 Cup of Nations Group B victory

In a thrilling comeback, Tunisia secured a vital 3-1 victory over Kenya in their crucial second Group B match at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, held at the vibrant 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo.

After suffering a narrow defeat against Nigeria in their opener, Tunisia entered this match with a fierce determination to avoid consecutive losses, and they delivered an emphatic response in the second half.

The encounter began with Kenya striking first, setting the stage with a stunning performance that ignited the crowd. Lawrence Ouma broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, finding the net with a close-range finish after a clever assist by Hassan Beja. Kenya’s dynamic first-half display saw them take an early lead, promising hope following their narrow 3-2 loss toMorocco.

As half-time approached, Tunisia found a lifeline through a penalty awarded after a VAR review revealed a handball by Baron Ochieng in the box. Farès Bousnina stepped up to convert the penalty with poise, leveling the score just before the break and shifting the momentum firmly in Tunisia’s favor.

The Carthage Eagles emerged from the interval like a whirlwind, displaying an intensity that left their opponents reeling. Coach’s tactical changes paid off as substitutes Omar Ben Ali and Alaeddine Derbali stepped onto the pitch, instantly making their mark. In the 70th minute, Ben Ali demonstrated remarkable composure, deftly finishing from close quarters after a relentless wave of Tunisian attacks pushed Kenya back.

As the match drew to a close, Derbali delivered a stunning blow five minutes from time, unleashing a spectacular long-range strike that soared into the top corner of the net, igniting the Tunisian fans into a frenzy. This decisive goal capped off a stellar second-half display and allowed Tunisia to break their four-match winless streak in the finals.

Meanwhile, Kenya, who had begun the match with vibrant attacking flair, gradually faded as the second half wore on, unable to muster the energy and aggression they had shown earlier. With this defeat, they remain without a point after two matches, facing a daunting challenge to advance to the knockout stages.

Tunisia’s triumph propels them to three points in Group B, creating heightened anticipation for the crucial clash between Nigeria and Morocco later that evening, as all four teams remain in contention for a spot in the next round.

Star Sport Academy Management Pleased with Cita Bah's Progress
by Football Sierra Leone

Star Sport Academy Management Pleased with Cita Bah’s Progress

Sierra Leone’s Star Sport Academy’s management has said they are happy with Cita Bah, their left back, who has been a critical performer this season.

Thanks to his outstanding showings in the Leone Rock Premier League, Bah, 18, was a member of the Sierra Leone national team for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Guinea-Bissau and Egypt.

Coming on as a substitute in the 88th minute to replace SS Bah, he made his first international appearance with the Shooting Stars of Sierra Leone U20 side during their 4-1 triumph over Egypt at the Suez Canal Stadium.

“As a club, we want to express our delight in Cita Bah’s development, and we hope he continues to progress,” said Alpha Fawundu, Secretary General of the club.

Bah was with FDC Vista in Russia before switching to FC Vans in Armenia before this season.

Bah was with FDC Vista in Russia before switching to FC Vans in Armenia prior to this season
Bah was with FDC Vista in Russia before switching to FC Vans in Armenia prior to this season