AYV News, April 21, 2026

The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Babadi Kamara, alongside members of his executive committee and the Minister of Sports, August James Teima, has extended a warm welcome and congratulations to Sierra Leone’s U-17 girls’ national team following their impressive progression to the second round of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

The young Sierra Leonean side secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against hosts Ivory Coast in Yamoussoukro, marking a significant achievement on the international stage.

Speaking during a welcoming ceremony held on Monday, April 20, at the SLFA Secretariat in Freetown, Kamara commended the team for their outstanding performance, highlighting their blend of individual brilliance and strong teamwork.

“We are extremely proud to see the girls excel and represent Sierra Leone with such excellence,” he stated.

Kamara noted that the team’s success is rooted in consistent performances at home and reaffirmed the SLFA’s commitment to the development of women’s football in the country. He emphasized that the association has demonstrated leadership by investing in the women’s game, including providing proper accommodation during training camps.

“The players have also received a token of appreciation, and their official allowances are set to be paid this week. Our support for the women’s game remains unwavering,” he added.

Minister Teima also praised the team’s achievement, assuring both players and technical staff of the government’s continued backing as they advance.

Sierra Leone’s U-17 girls will next face Benin in the second qualifying round. The first leg is scheduled to take place between May 22 and 24, with the return leg set for May 29 to 31, 2026.

The team’s progress has been widely celebrated as a boost for women’s football in Sierra Leone, reflecting growing investment and confidence in the development of the sport at the grassroots and national levels.