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Ascentonians FC, Malema Queens Relegated From Sierra Leone Women’s Top Flight
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Ascentonians FC, Malema Queens relegated from Sierra Leone Women’s top flight

As the league season wrapped up over the weekend, two Sierra Leone women’s football clubs, Ascentonians Football Club and Malema Queens Football Club, have been relegated from the 2025/26 Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League following their disappointing campaigns that saw both sides finish at the bottom of the standings.

The relegations confirmed on Monday, May 11, 2026, mark a bitter end to the season for the two clubs, whose struggles on both ends of the pitch ultimately proved costly in Sierra Leone’s top-tier women’s football competition.

Ascentonians endured a difficult promotion to elite football, collecting just nine points from 22 matches, the lowest tally among the league’s 12 clubs.

The Freetown-based side, which catapulted into the league two years ago, managed only two victories and three draws while suffering 17 defeats during the campaign, which they blamed on their defensive vulnerabilities after they were heavily exposed, with the club conceding 70 goals, the second-highest total in the league.

Their fellow strugglers, Malema Queens from the Eastern region, also failed to escape the drop after finishing with 15 points, after the side recorded four wins, three draws and 15 losses, while conceding a league-high 73 goals. Malema Queens’ total left them below the safety zone and a staggering 51 points behind unbeaten champions Mogbwemo Queens Football Club.

On the other hand, Mogbwemo Queens’ latest title triumph further strengthens the club’s growing dominance in Sierra Leone women’s football. However, the achievement places the two-time champions and Bonthe based club’s ahead of regional rivals Ram Kamara Football Club of Bo, last season’s league title holders.

While Ascentonians and Malema Queens now turn their focus toward rebuilding and securing an immediate return to the top flight through the Women’s First Division, Mogbwemo Queens are intensifying preparations for the upcoming WAFU A-Zone Clubs Competition.

Meanwhile, the reigning champions are set to make their second appearance in the WAFU A-ZONE regional tournament after debuting in 2024, with club officials describing the upcoming campaign as an opportunity to reaffirm Sierra Leone’s growing presence in women’s football across West Africa.

Sierra Leone to learn AFCON 2027 qualifying opponents this month
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone to learn AFCON 2027 qualifying opponents this month

CAF has announced when all member associations will learn who they will play in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The draw date for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers is set for Tuesday, 19 May.

Still searching for a head coach, Sierra Leone missed out on the last African showpiece and will find out the names of the three teams they will face in the qualifiers during the draw.

A total of 48 teams will be placed in 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group will qualify for AFCON 2027.

This edition of AFCON will be hosted by three countries: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda and the qualifiers will begin in September 2026 and end in March 2027.

CAF also mentioned that the FIFA Council recently approved these dates in Vancouver, Canada. They will reveal the host country for the opening match and the final soon.

Sierra Leone mourns Victoria Conteh, the Coach who broke football’s toughest barrier
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone mourns Victoria Conteh, the Coach who broke football’s toughest barrier

Sierra Leone’s football community is mourning the death of trailblazing coach Victoria Conteh, a historic figure who shattered gender barriers by becoming the first woman to coach an elite men’s top-tier club in the country.

Her passing, which was announced by the local football federation, SLFA, on Monday, May 4, 2026, has triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the sporting world. Respected former captain of the Sierra Leone Senior National Women’s coach, (Sierra Queens), Musu Bangura, is leading the park of the poll of former players and other members of the football family in Sierra Leone.

In her solemn tribute shared on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the former Sierra Queens skipper described the late coach Conteh as “a leader, a motivator, and a true soldier of the game.” “Today, my heart carries a weight that words can scarcely hold,” Bangura said, reflecting on years of shared commitment to football.

“She didn’t just coach players, she built lives, shaped character, and gave everything to the game.” Widely known as “Coach DE COX,” Conteh carved a unique path in Sierra Leonean football.

She rose through the women’s game to lead the national women’s team, the Sierra Queens, where she was instrumental in developing talent and promoting the growth of women’s football in a system long constrained by limited resources.

Her most defining achievement came when she took charge of East End Tigers in 2019, one of the country’s top-flight men’s clubs, and made history as the first woman in Sierra Leone, and among a rare few globally, to manage at that level in the men’s game, challenging deeply rooted norms and opening doors for women in football leadership.

Throughout her bitter-sweet career, the late Conteh, who had been sick for a while before her passing, endured her recent sudden amputation to stay alive, yet didn’t abandon football.

Her continued mentorship of both players and coaches nourished her illustrious past coaching career, earning her respect not only for breaking barriers but for her tactical discipline, resilience, and commanding presence on the touchline. Players and colleagues alike credit her with instilling professionalism, belief, and a winning mentality across both women’s and men’s teams.

The former Sierra Leone Queens Captain Bangura, who is now the President of the Sierra Leone Female Veterans Football Association, said the news of Conteh’s death felt “like a final whistle blown too soon,” underscoring the shock and emotional toll of the loss.

Meanwhile, Tributes continue to pour in nationwide, with many hailing the late Conteh as a symbol of courage and progress in African football. Her career is widely seen as a turning point in the fight for gender inclusion in sport, particularly in West Africa.

As Sierra Leone reflects on her life and legacy, the late coach Conteh is remembered not only for her historic achievements but for the countless players she mentored and inspired.

Despite gone, the late coach’s impact endures in every young girl who dares to coach, in every barrier challenged, and in every game played with passion and purpose.

Although dead, the fallen coach Victoria Conteh’s legacy lives on as unyielding, transformative, and unforgettable in Sierra Leone football history, Africa and the world over.

Violence halts Sierra Leone FA-Cup clash, triggers security concerns
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Violence halts Sierra Leone FA Cup clash, raising security concerns

Last Sunday evening Orange Sierra Leone FA Cup quarter-final between East End Lions and Star Sports Academy was eventually abandoned after crowd violence erupted, prompting the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) to launch an investigation and vow firm disciplinary action.

The high-stakes match, played at the SLFA Academy Field in Kingtom, Freetown, was halted in the 80th minute amid what officials described as “disturbing scenes” that threatened player safety and undermined the integrity of the game.

In a statement issued on Monday, May 4, the SLFA condemned the violence as “indiscipline and lawlessness,” stressing that football must be governed by respect, rules, and sportsmanship.

The local football federation further warned that such incidents endanger lives and damage the sport’s reputation.

While no serious injuries or arrests have been reported, authorities have yet to determine whether the match will be replayed or settled administratively.

However, the recent incident has intensified scrutiny of matchday security and fan conduct in Sierra Leone’s domestic competitions, with sports journalists and other Football stakeholders urging stricter enforcement measures to curb what they describe as “a growing pattern of violence across SLFA-sanctioned fixtures, including top-tier men’s and women’s national leagues.”

https://twitter.com/football_sierra/status/2051552877286511070

SLFA Launches Global Search for Leone Stars Coach Amid Kallon Fallout
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone targets a fourth AFCON appearance as 2027 dates confirmed

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has set June 19 to July 17, 2027, for the next Africa Cup of Nations, launching a qualification race that could see Sierra Leone secure a historic fourth appearance at the continental showpiece.

The tournament, branded as “PAMOJA 2027” which means “together”, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, the first time AFCON will be staged across three nations. The dates recently announced by the tournament organisers were approved by the FIFA Council, with venues for the opening match and final yet to be announced by CAF.

However, the focus now shifts to qualification, which will feature 48 teams, including Sierra Leone’s Leone Stars, who will compete for 24 places across 12 groups of four, with only the top two totalling 24 nations to advance in what is tipped to be a tightly contested campaign running from September 2026 to March 2027.

For Sierra Leone, the stakes are high, but a successful campaign would mark the country’s fourth AFCON qualification and reinforce its re-emergence in African football following its return to the tournament in 2021 after a long absence.

The 2027 edition will also mark AFCON’s return to East Africa for the first time since the 1976 Africa Cup of Nations, as CAF seeks to expand the competition’s global reach and growing audience.

With the draw set for May 19, 2026, Sierra Leone faces a defining path, one which many sports enthusiasts and supporters of the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone believe could cement the West African football-loving nation’s slot among the continent’s rising football nations.

Sierra Leone women’s team not listed for Africa’s 2028 Olympic Qualifiers
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone Women’s team not listed for Africa’s 2028 Olympic Qualifiers

Sierra Queens of Sierra Leone has not been listed for Africa’s qualification campaign for the women’s football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games, following the release of a 35-team lineup by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The qualification series scheduled to run from June 2026 to December 2027, will unfold over five grueling knockout rounds, producing just two representatives for the 2028 Olympics featuring African powerhouses, including Nigeria, South Africa and Ghana are expected to lead the charge, alongside emerging contenders such as Zambia, Morocco and Senegal.

The draw for this knockout phase was held on 28 April 2026 in Cairo, According to the procedure, the 35 teams taking part are: Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

CAF has however, confirmed that the anticipated qualifiers format will begin with a preliminary round featuring six lower-ranked teams before expanding into a 32-team bracket, with home-and-away ties steadily narrowing the field to the final two.

However, its crystal clearer that the Sierra Leone national Women’s team absence marks a significant blow, as women’s football gains pace across the continent.  While the continent’s qualifiers for the 2028 Olympic Games Women’s Football Tournament will offer vital exposure, competitive match experience and pathways to investment and professional opportunities, benefits now out of reach for the West African football-loving nation.

With Africa’s limited Olympic slots intensifying competition, the expanded campaign underscores both the continent’s growing depth and the rising cost of non-participation.

As the road to the 2028 Olympics begins, Sierra Leone remains on the outside, missing a pivotal moment in the evolution of women’s football in Africa.

The draw for this knockout phase was held on 28 April 2026 in Cairo,
The draw for this knockout phase was held on 28 April 2026 in Cairo,
Fresh Start for Sierra Leone Sport as NSA Gets New Boss
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Fresh Start for Sierra Leone Sport as NSA Gets New Boss

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has appointed Lawyer Mohamed Alphaka Conteh, Esq as Executive Director of the National Sports Authority, replacing Dr Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai in a move widely seen as a reset for the country’s sports administration.

The announcement on April 30, 2026, came just days after Abdulai marked two years in office. While no official explanation was provided for the change, its timing has sparked debate among stakeholders in both the sports and legal communities. Conteh, a seasoned legal practitioner with expertise in governance, compliance and dispute resolution, is regarded as a reform-oriented figure.

His appointment is seen as part of broader efforts by the Bio administration to strengthen accountability and institutional efficiency in the sector. He assumes office at a critical juncture, with Sierra Leone seeking to reposition sport as a driver of youth development, national unity and economic growth.

Some observers say his legal background could prove key in addressing persistent governance disputes and aligning national systems with international standards. Abdulai, who took office in 2024, led regulatory reviews and infrastructure rehabilitation initiatives.

However, his tenure was also marked by administrative tensions, concerns over the pace of reforms, and calls for more inclusive governance structures.

Though not officially cited as reasons for his exit, analysts say these challenges highlight the urgency of reform within the NSA. With parliamentary approval pending, focus now shifts to whether Conteh can quickly restore confidence, streamline operations and deliver tangible progress in Sierra Leone’s sporting landscape.

Mogbwemo Queens Clinch Sierra Leone Women’s Title in Dominant Fashion
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Mogbwemo Queens clinch Sierra Leone Women’s title in Dominant Fashion

Mogbwemo Queens Football Club has won the 2025/26 Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League with two matches to spare, sealing a landmark triumph that underscores their growing dominance in Sierra Leone’s women’s football.

The Bonthe District-based side secured the title after an imperious campaign, remaining unbeaten in 19 of 22 matches and collecting 57 points from a possible 66.

Their authority was evident at both ends of the pitch, combining prolific scoring 63 goals with a disciplined defence that consistently stifled opponents.

The league board confirmed that Mogbwemo Queens had established an insurmountable lead over their closest rivals, Ram Kamara Football Club, who have 51 points from 20 matches.

Midfielder Fatmata Turay attributed the victory to months of rigorous preparation and strong community support. The title was sealed with a 4–1 win against Koya Queens on April 25, inspiring joy across Bonthe District.

With this win, Mogbwemo Queens aims to represent Sierra Leone in upcoming continental competitions, marking a significant milestone for women’s football in the country.

Mogbwemo Queens have clinched the Sierra Leone women’s title in dominant fashion
Mogbwemo Queens have clinched the Sierra Leone women’s title in dominant fashion
Sierra Leone U-17 Girls to face Benin in second phase of the Women's World Cup qualifiers
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U-17 Women’s to face Benin in second phase of the World Cup qualifiers

The Sierra Leone U-17 Women’s National Team is set to face Benin in May after they eliminated the Ivory Coast in the first leg of the preliminary matches.

In the first leg, the match ended in a 0-0 draw. In the return leg, the Sierra Leonean team demonstrated resilience and determination, winning 2-1 to qualify. As a result, they secured their spot in the second preliminary round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Elsewhere, the biggest surprise came from Benin, who lost 3–1 in the first match but won 4–0 against Burkina Faso in the second match. Romaine Gandonou scored all four goals.

Cameroon, Ghana, and Ethiopia all won by a score of 6–0, showing their strength. Zambia, Kenya, and Uganda also qualified easily. In a close match, Senegal beat Tunisia 2–1, and both Tanzania and Burundi moved on as well.

Next, the focus will shift to the second round, which runs from May 22 to May 31.

Sierra Leone v Benin in the second round of the qualifiers schedule

* First Leg: May 22nd, 23rd, or 24th

* Second Leg: May 28th, 29th, or 30th

Second-round fixtures – FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 qualifiers

  • Guinea vs Nigeria
  • Benin vs Sierra Leone
  • Senegal vs Cameroon
  • Liberia vs Ghana
  • Zambia vs DR Congo
  • Ethiopia vs Burundi
  • Tanzania vs South Africa
  • Kenya vs Uganda
SLFA Launches Global Search for Leone Stars Coach Amid Kallon Fallout
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Sierra Leone Launches Global Search for Head Coach Amid Kallon Fallout

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has opened a global recruitment process for a new head coach of the country’s senior men’s national team, days after the controversial dismissal of Mohamed Kallon. This move continues to spark public debate and raises the prospect of legal action.

In a vacancy notice issued on April 22, the federation invited “suitably qualified and experienced” candidates to apply, signalling urgency in filling the vacancy amid mounting scrutiny. Applicants are required to hold at least a CAF A Licence or equivalent, with preference for those possessing CAF Pro or UEFA Pro qualifications, alongside a proven record at national team or top-tier club level.

The successful candidate will be tasked with leading the team’s technical direction, overseeing player scouting both domestically and within the diaspora, and implementing modern tactical and performance-driven systems.

The role also includes aligning the senior team with youth development structures to strengthen long-term competitiveness. The recruitment drive, however, is unfolding against a potentially destabilising backdrop.

Kallon, a former national team captain widely credited with revitalising the Leone Stars, has described his dismissal in a recent local media interview as “abrupt, unfair and unjustified,” and is weighing possible legal redress.

Analysts warn that any legal challenge could carry financial and administrative implications for the SLFA, including potential compensation claims and complications in attracting a new coach amid concerns over governance stability.

Prolonged disputes could also invite scrutiny under international football regulations, potentially affecting the federation’s credibility. The SLFA has not publicly responded to the possibility of legal action, but its swift move to advertise the position underscores an effort to maintain continuity on the pitch.

Applications for the post close on May 12, 2026, as Sierra Leone seeks a new technical leader while an unresolved dispute threatens to shape the team’s trajectory off the field.