In a show of unwavering support and encouragement, Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President Babadi Kamara paid a morale-boosting visit to the national U-17 team camp, famously known as the Shooting Stars, as they gear up for the upcoming WAFU-A U-17 Championship qualifiers in Senegal. The visit, which took place as the team was completing its final preparations, underscores the commitment of the SLFA leadership to nurturing young talent and fostering national pride through football.
The WAFU-A U-17 Championship, scheduled to be held from September 7 to 20, 2026, is a vital platform for young Sierra Leonean footballers to showcase their talent on the regional stage. It also serves as a stepping stone towards qualifying for the prestigious CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that offers young players the chance to gain continental recognition and experience.
During his visit, President Kamara took the opportunity to motivate the young players, emphasizing the importance of focus, discipline, and confidence. Addressing the team, Kamara said, “As Shooting Stars, you are fit to play among the best in the tournament. Be motivated, believe in yourselves, and go out there to bring the trophy home.” His words aimed to instill a sense of pride and purpose among the players, urging them to represent Sierra Leone with dignity and determination on the international stage.
The young team, currently in high spirits, is drawn into a competitive group that includes host nation Senegal, Mauritania, and The Gambia. Sierra Leone’s campaign will kick off against The Gambia on September 7, followed by a clash with Senegal on September 10, and a final group match against Mauritania on September 13. The players are aware that their performances in these matches will significantly influence their chances of progressing to the next stage and securing qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The SLFA President’s visit also included a meeting with the technical officials and the coaching staff, led by Head Coach Patrick Bangura. Coach Bangura expressed his gratitude for the leadership’s support and highlighted that the remaining days would be crucial for fine-tuning the squad and tactical strategies. The technical team is working tirelessly to finalize the squad and ensure the players are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
SLFA Executive Committee Member Mohamed Sorie Jalloh, who is leading the delegation to Senegal, reassured the nation that the team would uphold the country’s reputation through dedicated effort and professionalism. “Our young players are determined to make Sierra Leone proud. We are confident they will give their best on the field,” Jalloh stated.
The team is scheduled to depart for Dakar on Wednesday, September 2, and will face The Gambia in their opening fixture just five days later. With the stakes high and qualification for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations at stake, Sierra Leonean football fans are optimistic about their young team’s prospects.
This tournament presents a golden opportunity for Sierra Leone’s youth to shine and demonstrate their potential to the African football community. The players, inspired by the leadership’s support and their own aspirations, are determined to turn their preparations into tangible results. Their success in Senegal could set the stage for future national teams and inspire a new generation of footballers across Sierra Leone.
As the Shooting Stars prepare to take on regional giants, all eyes will be on Dakar, hoping that Sierra Leone’s young talents can rise to the occasion, secure qualification, and bring glory to their nation. The journey may be challenging, but with unity, focus, and the backing of their supporters, these young players aim to make Sierra Leone proud and carve their names into the annals of African youth football.
