The Sierra Leone U20 national team is facing scrutiny following allegations of fielding an ineligible player during their recent match against Liberia U20 in the 2024 WAFU Zone A U20 tournament.
The controversy centers on goalkeeper Abu Bakar Kamara, who played the full 90 minutes for Sierra Leone.
Investigations have revealed discrepancies in Kamara’s age documentation, raising suspicions of possible age fraud.
Kamara’s passport for the WAFU Zone A tournament lists his birthdate as March 24, 2006 (Passport #: SLR116889), but records from his participation in the 2023 CAF Confederation Cup with FC Kallon show a different birthdate, January 28, 2004 (Passport #: ER361085).
Kamara played both legs of FC Kallon’s matches against Dreams FC in September 2023, registered under the 2004 birthdate.
The conflicting birthdates have led to concerns about potential double registration and manipulation of official records. If found guilty of fielding an ineligible player, Sierra Leone could face penalties, including point deductions, fines, or a possible ban from future tournaments.
The investigation continues, and the outcome could have significant implications for Sierra Leone’s participation in the 2024 WAFU tournament.
