Sierra Leone’s national women’s football team, the Sierra Queens, have made history by winning their first-ever WAFU A Women’s Cup title, defeating Senegal 1-0 in a thrilling final on Saturday 31, June 2024
The closely contested match was held in Nouakchott, Mauritania, where team captain Salamatu Kamara secured victory with a composed penalty in the 70th minute. Kamara’s outstanding performance earned her the Woman of the Match accolade.
The Sierra Queens’ triumph was further highlighted by the exceptional contributions of goalkeeper Hannah Juana, who was named both the Best Goalkeeper and Best Player of the tournament. Her consistent displays between the posts played a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s path to glory.
Earlier in the day, Liberia claimed third place with a 1-0 win over Mali in the bronze medal match.
The Sierra Queens’ landmark victory has sparked celebrations across Sierra Leone, with many hailing it as a significant milestone for women’s sports and national pride. Beyond the football pitch, the win is being viewed as a powerful symbol of hope, unity, and the potential within the nation.
“This victory is more than just a sporting achievement it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to what we can accomplish with determination, leadership, and investment,” a statement from a senior Sierra Leone government offical, Dr. Kandeh Yumkelleh read.
The win has also reignited conversations about the importance of women’s empowerment across all sectors of society. Advocates emphasize that the team’s success underlines the need for continued efforts to ensure equal opportunities for women and girls not just in sports, but in education, leadership, and beyond.
“As a nation, we must commit to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering environments for women. When women succeed, families, communities, and the country grow stronger,” the statement added.
With this historic triumph, the Sierra Queens have not only secured a regional title but have also inspired a renewed sense of national pride and optimism for the future of women’s sports in Sierra Leone.
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