2026 World Cup Qualifier: Sierra Leone Secures First Victory against Djibouti
El Jadida, Thursday 6th June 2024–Sierra Leone’s national team, the Leone Stars, clinched their inaugural win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on 5th June 2024, against Djibouti at the Stade EL Abdi El Jadida in Morocco.
Debutant Curtis Davies made an immediate impact, finding the net in the 12th minute off a corner kick delivered by Emmanuel Samadia.
Despite conceding a penalty due to a defensive lapse in the 35th minute, which Gabriel Dadze converted for Djibouti, Sierra Leone persevered.
The second half witnessed a dominant display from the Leone Stars, with Augustus Kargbo’s adept dribbling leading to a crucial goal in the 51st minute.
While Djibouti created opportunities, they were unable to capitalize, allowing Sierra Leone to secure a vital 3 points.
With this victory, the Leone Stars have amassed 4 points from three matches played in Group A.
Augustus Kargbo, representing Cesena, emerged as the hero, sealing the win for Sierra Leone in the 51st minute. Kargbo, the match-winner, emphasized the importance of his goal in turning the tide for the team.
Head Coach Amidu Karim hailed the victory as a morale boost ahead of their clash with Burkina Faso on 10th June in Mali.
Minister of Sport, Madam Augusta James Teima, stressed the win’s significance, applauding the team’s performance under her leadership.
This triumph signifies a positive stride for Sierra Leone in their World Cup qualification journey, accumulating four points in three matches.
They now brace themselves for a challenging encounter against Burkina Faso on 10th June 2024, in Mali, aiming to sustain their momentum as they tackle tougher opponents ahead.
The delegation was lead by the Vice President of the football federation, Harold Nat Johnson, Minister of Sport, Madam Augusta Teima, NSA Executive Director, Dr Emmanuel saffa Abdulia, NSA Board Chairman, Ibrahim Nylenkeh, and SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima.
Chairman Parliamentary sports committee, Hon Lawyer Hindolo M. Gevao and His Worship, the Deputy Mayor of Freetown Lawyer Kweku Lisk, an Exco member of SLFA, were also part of the delegation.
The team will depart Morocco on Thursday 6th June 2024. Their next test awaits on Monday 10th June, 2024, as they face off against the Stallions of Burkina Faso in Mali.
The Head of Chancery, James Sylvanus Lebbie and Staff of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Rabat, and some Sierra Leoneans residing in Morocco graced the match and gave the players the support needed.
