Category: Sport News

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.

π„π π²π©π­π’πšπ§ 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐒-𝐃𝐨𝐩𝐒𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐒𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐒𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐒𝐬𝐒𝐭 π’π’πžπ«π«πš π‹πžπ¨π§πž π”πŸπŸŽ 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐑𝐞 𝐒𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩π₯𝐚𝐲𝐒𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐚𝐒𝐫
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

π„π π²π©π­π’πšπ§ 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐒-𝐃𝐨𝐩𝐒𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐒𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐒𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐒𝐬𝐒𝐭 π”πŸπŸŽ 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐑𝐞 𝐒𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩π₯𝐚𝐲𝐒𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐚𝐒𝐫

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. FarΓ¨s 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
CAF Hosts Life Skills Lectures for Sierra Leone and Egypt U20 teams
by FSL News

CAF Hosts Life Skills Lectures for Sierra Leone and Egypt U20 teams

On Sunday, May 4th, the Confederation of African Football conducted a motivational and life skills workshop for the Sierra Leone and Egypt U-20 teams, including their coaches, at the Mercure Hotel in Ismailia.

Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers.

The workshop was moderated by former Nigerian international and AFCON 1994 winner Daniel Amokachi, alongside Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association. Both are members of the CAF Technical Study Group and brought valuable insight to the session.

Amokachi praised the players’ dedication, acknowledging their strong performance and Group A leadership. He stressed the importance of building healthy relationships, making smart investments, and acquiring additional skills to ensure a stable future.

He encouraged players to pursue education and consider roles such as coaching, administration, and mentoring to help shape their post-football careers.

Steenbok commended the teams’ intensity and addressed both short- and long-term career strategies. He highlighted the importance of mentorship and leadership in a footballer’s journey, encouraging players to take on active leadership roles for personal and professional growth.

The young Sierra Leonean players left the session inspired and grateful for the guidance.

Many saw it as a turning point, reminding them that success goes beyond the pitch. With renewed focus, they embraced the path of discipline, education, and leadership as vital parts of their football journey.

Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association and Sierra Leone U20 skipper Momoh I Kamara
Walter Steenbok, former Technical Director of the South African Football Association and Sierra Leone U20 skipper Momoh I Kamara
Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers.
Emphasizing mental preparation and future planning, the session aimed to equip young footballers for life beyond their playing careers
Mustapha Bundu's Plymouth Argyle relegation to League One Confirmed
by Football Sierra Leone

Mustapha Bundu’s Plymouth Argyle relegation to League One Confirmed

Sierra Leone International Mustapha Bundu’s Plymouth Argyle has been relegated following their 2-1 defeat to Leeds on Saturday at the Home Park Stadium.

Manor Solomon’s stoppage-time goal gave Leeds United a 2-1 win over Plymouth Argyle, securing the Championship title as Plymouth faced relegation. With Burnley winning 3-1 against Millwall, Leeds claimed the title on goal difference after being promoted to the Premier League last month.

Plymouth took the lead when Mustapha Bundu’s shot hit the post and deflected in off Sam Byram. Leeds struggled against a strong Plymouth team until Willy Gnonto equalized from a low cross by Solomon early in the second half.

Leeds had a goal by Joel Piroe disallowed for offside, although they pushed for a winner. Just as it seemed Leeds would finish second, Solomon scored a low shot into the corner, sparking celebrations among the fans.

Leeds started well, with Byram, Ao Tanaka, and Willy Gnonto missing chances before halftime. In the second half, Piroe again missed a chance, and Byram’s header went wide.

With Burnley winning, Farke sent on Patrick Bamford and Largie Ramazani to find the title-winning goal. Just when defeat seemed likely, Solomon broke into the box and scored, sending the away fans into a frenzy.

Striker Amadou Bakayoko helpsΒ Sapporo secure maximum points
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Amadou Bakayoko aids Sapporo win over Montedio Yamagata

Sierra Leonean international Amadou Bakayoko delivered a stunning performance for his Japanese J League 2 team, Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo, scoring the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Montedio Yamagata at the NDsoft Stadium in Yamagata on Saturday.

Bakayoko’s strike, his third goal of the new campaign, proved crucial in securing three vital points for his side, propelling them up to twelfth place in the standings following a challenging start to the season.

The decisive goal came in the 56th minute when Bakayoko expertly received a well-timed pass, demonstrating composure as he slotted the ball home to give his team the lead. This moment would ultimately seal the win for Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo, marking a significant turnaround in their fortunes.

On July 28, 2024, Bakayoko signed with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo as they made their bid to return to J1 League competition. He made an impactful debut on August 16, coming on as a substitute and marking his presence with a goal from the penalty spot in an exhilarating 5-3 victory over Sagan Tosu. Despite facing relegation the previous season, Bakayoko’s contributions are already making waves in the team’s quest for redemption.

Consadole Sapporo next outing in the round fourteen of the J League 2 is when they hosts JΓΊbilo Iwata on Tuesday.

Egypt and Zambia share Group A U20 Cup of Nations spoils
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt and Zambia share Group A U20 Cup of Nations spoils

Egypt was held to a goalless draw by Zambia in their second Group A match at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 on Saturday night in Ismailia.

This result gives Egypt four points from two games, following a win against South Africa and a loss to Sierra Leone. Zambia also has two draws, including one against Sierra Leone.

Both teams showed attacking intent, but neither could score. Egypt came close in the 67th minute when Ahmed Kabaka hit the crossbar, and Mohamed Zaalouk missed a chance from close range. Zambia had scoring opportunities too, with David Simukonda missing a key shot in stoppage time.

In the first half, both teams tested each other, with Egypt’s Mohamed Abdallah forcing a save from Zambia’s goalkeeper, Leevison Banda. Egypt added fresh players in the second half, hoping to break the deadlock, but Zambia defended well.

Sierra Leone leads Group A with six points after beating Tanzania 1-0. Egypt is in second place, while Zambia has two points and needs to win in their final game to advance.

Egypt must avoid defeat in their last match to progress, facing pressure from their home fans after the loss to Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone edge closer to U20 AFCON Quater-final spot after defeating Tanzania
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone becomes the first to reach AFCON U-20 Quarter-finals

In Group A, striker Samuel Gandi scored in the 37th minute to lead the Shooting Stars to a 1-0 victory over Tanzania at the Suez Canal Stadium on Saturday.

With one draw and two victories against the hosts, Egypt, and Tanzania, the Shooting Stars accumulated a total of seven points, securing their advancement with one game remaining in the group stage.

Matchday three between Tanzania and Sierra Leone got off to a scrappy start, with both sides struggling to take control. After a couple of missed passes and a slow tempo, Sierra Leone almost broke the deadlock when skipper Momoh I Kamara made a run but misplayed his pass to midfielder Salieu Bah in the 16th minute.

Immediately following that, Tanzania caught Sierra Leone’s midfield and defense off guard when striker Bakari Msimu missed an open net after completely missing the ball.

However, Sierra Leone took the lead in the 37th minute after a rebound found striker Samuel Gandi, who tapped in the opener.

After the break, Sierra Leone looked more comfortable on the ball in the opening minutes, but Tanzania responded with urgency, pressing higher and dominating possession. Jammy Simba and Ahmed Pipino both came close to equalizing, with Simba narrowly missing a header and Pipino firing a free kick just off target.

As the clock wound down, the East Africans continued to press. Substitute Vedastus Masinde’s shot was blocked, and Anthony Mlingo’s late attempts failed to find the back of the net as Sierra Leone held firm defensively.

Sierra Leone could have doubled their lead on the counter, with Momoh Kamara and Sulaiman Kargbo both seeing their efforts blocked in the dying minutes.

The result sees Sierra Leone temporarily top the group with six points, ahead of Egypt’s clash with Zambia later tonight. Meanwhile, Tanzania, still without a goal or a point, faces an uphill battle going into their final group match.

Read Egypt and Zambia share Group A U20 Cup of Nations SpoilsΒ 
Back-to-back wins for the Shooting Stars of Sierra Leone, as skipper Momoh I. Kamara was named Man of the Match for the second consecutive time
Back-to-back wins for the Shooting Stars of Sierra Leone, as skipper Momoh I. Kamara was named Man of the Match for the second consecutive time