Sierra Leone revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a crucial 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in Group A, at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia on Tuesday.
The Leone Stars struck first in the 37th minute, when Momoh I Kamara capitalised on a clever pass from Sallieu Tarawallie, calmly slotting home to give the hosts the lead. Substitute Alhassan Koroma then sealed the win in stoppage time, sending home supporters into wild celebrations.
Sierra Leone could have extended their lead earlier when Augustus Kargbo rattled the crossbar with a fierce strike, while Buya Turay also came close from a direct free-kick. Despite Ethiopia’s attempts to fight back after the break, the visitors failed to penetrate Sierra Leone’s well-organised defence.
Head coach Mohamed Kallon, who made five changes from the side that drew 1-1 away to Guinea-Bissau last Thursday, saw his tactical adjustments pay off. Veterans Kei Kamara and Buya Turay began on the bench, with the younger squad members showing sharpness and energy throughout the match.
The victory leaves Sierra Leone third in Group A with 12 points, behind Egypt (19 points) and Burkina Faso (14 points). Guinea-Bissau sit in fourth place on 8 points, while Djibouti remain bottom with just one.
With two fixtures remaining against Burkina Faso and Djibouti in October, Sierra Leone’s chances of progressing to the playoffs remain slim but alive.
About the Author
