By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The current champions of the Sierra Leone Premier League, East End Lions Football Club, have confirmed the addition of four new players to their squad as preparations intensify for the upcoming season. The signings, which include both local and international talents, are expected to strengthen the club’s title defense and boost their competitiveness on all fronts.
The club’s first major signing is Abubakarr Barrie, a versatile left back, who joins from Standard Football Club on a permanent deal. Barrie previously played for Diamond Stars on loan, where his consistent performances and defensive solidity earned him recognition. His impact went beyond club football as he also featured for the national team, bringing invaluable international experience to East End Lions. The club described Barrie as a player whose leadership and determination would be crucial in the new campaign.
In another strategic move, East End Lions secured the services of Santigie Bangura on a season-long loan from HADA FC. Bangura, capable of playing both as a right back and center-back, previously turned out for Wilberforce Strikers on loan. A rising star in Sierra Leone’s football, Bangura has already made his mark on the international stage. He featured prominently in the national U15 and U17 setups, and was a regular starter in Coach Mohamed Lamin’s U17 squad that reached the semi-finals of the WAFU Zone-A Tournament in Mauritania in 2022. Though Sierra Leone was eliminated on penalties by Senegal, Bangura’s pace, agility, and composure stood out, earning him a reputation as one of the country’s brightest young prospects.
To bolster their goalkeeping department, the Lions have signed Ivorian shot-stopper Mohamed Cisse Koua from Real Du Faso in Burkina Faso. Cisse brings international experience and is expected to provide healthy competition for the number one spot, offering reliability between the posts as the club sets sights on retaining their crown.
Completing the quartet is Guinean attacking midfielder Alhassane Doumbouya, who joins from Academie De Dixinn FC. Doumbouya is known for his creativity, vision, and ability to control the tempo of games. His signing is seen as a boost to the Lions’ midfield, with the potential to link up effectively with the club’s attacking options and provide more scoring opportunities.
Club officials expressed optimism that the new signings would add depth and balance to the squad. “These players bring a mix of youth, experience, and international exposure. They will not only strengthen our current team but also help us build for the future,” a club representative noted.
East End Lions, fondly known as the “Killers,” enter the 2025/2026 Leone Rock Premier League season as defending champions. Their triumph in the 2024/2025 campaign was marked by consistency, resilience, and an attacking flair that overwhelmed opponents. The addition of Barrie, Bangura, Cisse, and Doumbouya is widely regarded as a clear statement of intent from the club to maintain dominance and push for further glory.
With the new season fast approaching, fans of the club are eagerly awaiting to see how the fresh signings will blend with the existing squad. Expectations are high that the champions will continue their winning tradition while entertaining supporters with quality football.
