Sierra Leone is set to embark on its journey towards qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The Sierra Leone Football Association has revealed the schedule for the Leone Stars’ first two qualifying matches.
Returning to the AFCON stage after a 25-year hiatus in 2021, Sierra Leone missed out on the tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.
However, the Leone Stars are determined to make their presence felt in the 2025 edition.
To achieve this, they must navigate Group G, which features African champions Côte d’Ivoire, alongside Zambia and Chad.
Ranked 117th in the FIFA rankings, Sierra Leone sees an opportunity in this relatively open group.
The campaign kicks off on September 6 with a home match against Chad.
Despite being the home team, the Leone Stars will play away from their usual venue.
The match is slated for the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia, starting at 16:00 GMT.
The Leone Stars’ journey continues on September 9, when they travel to Lusaka to face Zambia.
This crucial second-day fixture will also commence at 16:00 GMT.
Reflecting on their previous performance, Sierra Leone’s return to the AFCON in 2021 was a significant achievement after a quarter-century absence.
The team, led by Osman Kakay, aims to build on that experience and secure a place in the 2025 tournament.
Sierra Leone faces tough competition in Group G, particularly from Côte d’Ivoire, a powerhouse in African football.
Zambia, another strong contender, will also pose a challenge. Chad, while considered the underdog, cannot be underestimated.
The Leone Stars must perform consistently to advance from this group.
The choice of the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium as the venue for the home match against Chad is notable.
Located in Monrovia, Liberia, this stadium has a capacity of 35,000 and will provide a neutral ground for Sierra Leone.
The decision to play here is strategic, ensuring a robust turnout of supporters and a conducive atmosphere for the Leone Stars.
The second match in Lusaka will be a stern test for Sierra Leone. Zambia, known for its passionate home crowd and formidable team, will be a challenging opponent.
The Leone Stars must be at their best to secure a positive result in this away fixture.
Sierra Leone’s squad, featuring players like Osman Kakay, will need to leverage their international experience and teamwork to navigate these early qualifiers.
The team’s performance in these initial matches will be crucial in setting the tone for their AFCON 2025 campaign.
As the countdown to the qualifiers begins, Sierra Leone’s supporters remain hopeful and excited.
The Leone Stars have demonstrated resilience and potential, and with the right preparation and determination, they could secure their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
