Sierra Leone forced to host DR Congo AFCON qualifier in Morocco after venue search fails

Sierra Leone will play their crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against DR Congo in Morocco on November 17 after efforts to secure a closer venue collapsed, leaving the Leone Stars facing another fixture away from home.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) confirmed the arrangement after failing to secure Guinea or Liberia as alternative hosts for the Matchday Three encounter.

The association had explored both countries in a bid to make the match more accessible to Sierra Leonean supporters, but scheduling conflicts prevented either venue from being used.

The decision means Sierra Leone must continue playing their home fixtures outside the country as they attempt to revive a qualifying campaign that has started poorly.

Guinea and Liberia options collapse

The SLFA initially sought to stage the match in a neighbouring country to reduce the burden on supporters travelling to watch the national team.

Guinea and Liberia emerged as possible alternatives, offering Sierra Leone the prospect of hosting the fixture closer to home.

However, scheduling difficulties in both countries ultimately ruled out the proposed arrangements, forcing the association to consider another option.

The SLFA also attempted to change the match date, requesting that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) move the encounter from November 17 to November 16.

That proposal was unsuccessful after DR Congo rejected the request and insisted that the game be played on its originally scheduled date.

With neither alternative venue available and the proposed date change rejected, Morocco became the destination for the decisive qualifying encounter.

The SLFA has expressed regret over the outcome, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to supporters who will be unable to watch the Leone Stars on home soil.

The association apologised to fans for the circumstances surrounding the venue decision and thanked them for their patience and continued support of the national team.

CAF ban keeps Leone Stars away from home

Sierra Leone’s inability to host the match in their own country stems from the continued unavailability of the National Stadium for international fixtures.

The venue remains barred from hosting such matches after failing to meet CAF’s required standards, forcing the Leone Stars to stage their home games abroad.

The situation presents a significant challenge for the national team, which must navigate its qualifying campaign without the advantage of playing in front of its home supporters.

Although the SLFA explored alternatives in neighbouring countries, the logistical difficulties surrounding the November fixture have left Morocco as the confirmed destination.

The association has reiterated its commitment to supporting the team despite the challenges, with qualification for the 2027 AFCON remaining the ultimate objective.

Leone Stars face crucial test after losing opening games

The November 17 encounter presents an important opportunity for Sierra Leone to revive their campaign after suffering defeats in their opening two qualifying matches.

Head coach Didier Gomez Da Rosa will be tasked with finding a response as the Leone Stars attempt to get their bid for a place at the continental tournament back on track.

A third consecutive setback would further complicate their qualification hopes, increasing the importance of the meeting with DR Congo.

Playing in Morocco will also mean Sierra Leone must prepare for the fixture away from their traditional home environment, adding another logistical consideration to an already challenging assignment.

Despite the difficult start, the SLFA has maintained its commitment to backing the team as it pursues qualification.

The November 17 match against DR Congo will therefore carry considerable significance for the Leone Stars, who need a positive result to restore confidence and keep their campaign alive.