Bo, Sierra Leone — A second-half goal from defender Abdul Jarju Kabia proved decisive as the Leone Stars secured a narrow 1-0 victory over their West African neighbors Liberia on Saturday at the Southern Arena in Bo City.
The match, the first leg of a two-match international friendly series, saw a goalless first half before Kabia struck midway through the second period. The tall centre-back finished a pass from the left wing to give Sierra Leone the lead.
Liberia pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages but were unable to break through a resilient home defense.
This result marks a positive outing for Sierra Leone, showcasing squad depth with a defender stepping up to score the winner. Kabia, a 25-year-old Freetown native currently playing club football for FC Samgurali Tskaltubo in Georgia’s Erovnuli Liga, added to his growing reputation on the international stage.
The two nations, who share a long footballing rivalry in the Mano River Union region, have faced each other multiple times in recent years. Saturday’s encounter was played in a competitive yet friendly atmosphere, with home fans turning out in strong numbers to support the Leone Stars.
The return leg is scheduled for June 9 in Monrovia, Liberia’s capital, where the Lone Star will look to level the series.
The win provides Sierra Leone with valuable momentum and match fitness ahead of future competitive fixtures, while both teams gain important preparation time on the pitch.
