veteran defender Curtis Davies etched his name into the annals of Sierra Leonean football history by setting a new record during the national team’s 2-1 victory over Djibouti. The match, held on Wednesday, June 5, was part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Davies, who had been absent from the national team since October 2023, was recalled by coach Amidu Karim amid some controversy.
At 39 years old, his inclusion in the squad raised eyebrows, but he swiftly silenced his critics with a stellar performance on the pitch.
The match saw Davies opening the scoring for Sierra Leone. In the 12th minute, he connected with a precise pass from Emmanuel Samadia, sending the ball past the Djiboutian goalkeeper and into the net.
This goal not only gave his team an early lead but also secured Davies’ place in history as the oldest goalscorer for the Sierra Leone national team.
Previously, the record was held by Kei Kamara, the Los Angeles FC forward, who scored at the age of 37 during a friendly match against Gambia on October 9, 2021.
Kamara now moves to second place in this ranking, followed by former left winger Julius Wobay, who scored at 33 years old in a match on June 10, 2017.
Davies’ goal and overall performance were pivotal in Sierra Leone’s triumph over Djibouti, underscoring his enduring talent and leadership on the field.
This victory is a significant step for Sierra Leone in their World Cup qualifying campaign and highlights the potential for seasoned players to make impactful contributions.
The match, which took place at Cheikha Boidiya Stadium in Nouakchott, was a testament to the resilience and skill of the Leone Stars.
Davies’ record-breaking goal added an extra layer of excitement and pride for fans and players alike.
As Sierra Leone continues its quest for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, the inclusion and performance of experienced players like Curtis Davies could prove invaluable.
His ability to deliver under pressure and set records inspires both his teammates and the next generation of Sierra Leonean footballers.
