Ismailia, Egypt – May 9, 2025 (SLENA) – As Sierra Leone’s U-20 national team, Shooting Stars, gear up for a high-stakes quarterfinal clash against Morocco in the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), senior government officials have rallied behind the team, pledging both moral and financial support ahead of the critical fixture.
A delegation led by the Minister of Sport, Madam Augusta James-Teima; and the Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, visited the team at their base in Ismailia to encourage and inspire the young athletes as they stand on the brink of making history. A victory in the upcoming match would secure Sierra Leone a coveted spot at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
In a motivating address to the team, Dr. Abdulai lauded the players for their discipline, commitment, and resilience throughout the tournament. He pledged a $500 winning bonus for each player should they defeat Morocco and progress to the semifinals, emphasizing the government’s belief in the team’s potential.
He further praised the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) for its organizational efforts and continued investment in youth football development. “This moment is a testament to the progress of our football ecosystem and the determination of these young men to elevate Sierra Leone on the continental stage,” he stated.
Minister James-Teima echoed these sentiments, commending the players for uplifting Sierra Leone’s image through sport. She reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the team and acknowledged the critical roles played by National Teams Ambassador Christian Dauda and National Team Scout Morlai Kamara in identifying and nurturing talent.
Team Captain Momoh Ibrahim Kamara, speaking on behalf of the players, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the government’s support and vowed that the team would give their best to make the nation proud. Head Coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara reinforced the team’s readiness and unity, assuring fans that the Shooting Stars are fully focused and prepared for the task ahead.
With national pride and a World Cup dream at stake, Sierra Leone’s Shooting Stars are poised for one of the most significant matches in the country’s football history.
