By Mackie M. Jalloh
In the wake of Leone Stars’ recent goalless draw against Chad, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, the Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), has issued a stern warning to the national football team, stressing that the government’s significant investment in sports must yield results.
Speaking during a post-match briefing, Dr Abdulai highlighted the growing frustration of the public and government over the team’s underwhelming performances, especially in home games.
Dr Abdulai made it clear that the financial burden borne by the government and taxpayers demands a tangible return in the form of victories. “The days of rewarding mediocrity are over,” he stated emphatically. “We can no longer justify paying bonuses for draws, particularly in matches played at home where the team should dominate. Sierra Leoneans expect more, and this result does not reflect the potential or the capabilities that this team has shown in past competitions.”
The NSA executive pointed to the country’s immense financial commitment to the team, urging the players to take responsibility for their performances. “We are not asking for miracles,” Dr Abdulai continued, “but the government and the people of Sierra Leone deserve results that match the level of investment being made.”
The draw against Chad was seen as a disappointing result, given Sierra Leone’s previous form in the World Cup qualifiers and the perceived strength gap between the two teams. With AFCON 2025 qualification in sight, Dr Abdulai underscored the importance of not only winning games but also breaking the team’s recurring pattern of slow starts in major competitions.
“This is not the first time Leone Stars have struggled at the onset of qualification campaigns, only to scramble for points at the end,” Dr Abdulai observed. “If we want to secure our place in AFCON 2025 in Morocco, we must start winning, especially in our home matches.”
Leone Stars’ current standing in Group G highlights the stakes. Ivory Coast leads with three points, followed by Sierra Leone and Chad with a point each, while Zambia trails with zero. As the qualifying matches progress, the pressure is mounting for Leone Stars to turn around their fortunes and bring pride to their nation.
The National Sports Authority, established by an Act of Parliament, holds the responsibility of promoting and developing sports across Sierra Leone. With expectations running high, the authority has made it clear that only victories will validate the resources poured into the national team. The onus now lies on Leone Stars to rise to the occasion and deliver the results that the country demands.
