FREETOWN, 24th September 2026 – Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) President, Babadi Kamara has rallied Leone Stars ahead of their 2027 AFCON qualifier opener against Zimbabwe, urging the players to start the campaign with victory this evening.
Kamara, who was elected SLFA President last month, met the team at their training ground on the eve of the match in an emotional pep talk.
Flanked by members of his executive and technical staff including head coach, Didier Gomes Da Rosa, Kamara, told the players about the weight of the national jersey.
He referenced the historic moments that united the country – the qualification in Guinea in 2020 and the goalless draw against then champions Algeria at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.
“In 2020 when we qualified in Guinea, for those who are opportune to see, the whole nation was on standstill, everyone was celebrating. When we went to Cameroon and played against Algeria, we had a draw in that match, it was like winning the World Cup. That is what football does, it’s a game of emotion,” he told the players.
Kamara said the SLFA and the government had done their part by providing everything the team needs for the qualifier, despite tough economic times. He disclosed that the Executive Director of the FA was present at training to show full support.
He also revealed the scale of government’s backing, saying funds were diverted from other ministries to ensure the team travels and prepares well.
The new FA boss stressed the need for unity and hard work on the pitch, telling the stars to support each other and believe in themselves for 90 minutes.
“You have to believe in yourself. During the course somebody may lose the ball, don’t shout at him, tap him on his back, encourage him to do more,” he said.
Sierra Leone face Zimbabwe today in their first match of the qualifiers for the 2027 AFCON to be hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The team will be hoping to return to the continental showpiece after missing the last two editions.
Kick-off is at 7pm Sierra Leone time.
