Leone Stars held their first training session on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, at the Lycee CLASSIQUE training complex at 6pm.
This session marks the beginning of their preparations for the upcoming Nation Cup Qualifying matches against Ivory Coast, scheduled for October 11th and 15th, 2024, in Ivory Coast and Monrovia, Liberia, respectively.
Following the session, head coach Amidu Karim delivered an inspiring pep talk, stressing the significance of these matches for their qualification to the 2025 Nation Cup. “Winning against Ivory Coast, both away and at home, is crucial for our chances to qualify,” he emphasized.
“For me, there are no first or second choice games. Every match in these qualifiers is a final. Securing three points in each game is essential,” he stated firmly. “This time, there’s no room for complacency.”
He urged the players to give their all during training to earn a place in the starting eleven. “When you’re on the pitch, use your strength and experience to secure victory. Take control of the game and play together with unity and purpose. The sky is our limit.”
Amidu also acknowledged the support from the Ministry of Sports, the National Sports Authority, and the Sierra Leone Football Association. “The authorities are committed to ensuring you are comfortable and well-prepared for this tournament,” he added.
“All I need from you is to win. That is the expectation from the government and the people of Sierra Leone,” he concluded.
The training session was attended by Team Manager Mr. Bah, Competition Director Sorie Ibrahim Sesay, National Sports Coordinator Lambert Sesay, Admin Secretary Mrs. Umu Kargbo, Accountant Albert Lebbie, National Coordinator James Fofanah, Momodu Alpha Senior Development Sports Officer MOS, and various sports journalists.
Eleven foreign-based players have already joined the team, with eight more, including International Sports Ambassador Christian Dauda, expected to arrive tonight and tomorrow.
Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima, Executive Director of NSA Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Chairman NSA Board Mr. IbrahimNyelenkeh, SLFA President Thomas Daddy Brima and VP Harold Nat Johnson Sports Ambassador, etc, are expected to join the team on Wednesday and Thursday.
Credit: Alex Lansana Claye
