Sierra Leone will be without influential midfielder Alhassan Koroma for their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Zambia on Tuesday, September 10. The Qatari-based player, who represents Al Shahaniya, sustained a hamstring injury during Sierra Leone’s previous match against Chad, which ended in a goalless draw.
Koroma played a pivotal role in the Leone Stars’ performance against Chad last Friday, completing 85% of his passes, creating one key chance, and successfully executing two out of three dribbles.
His defensive contributions were equally impressive, with 100% of his tackles successful, alongside two clearances and four recoveries.
Despite his commendable efforts on the field, the injury he sustained has ruled him out of the upcoming fixture against Zambia, a significant blow for the team.
The Sierra Leone Football Association has yet to provide an official timeline for Koroma’s recovery, but reports indicate the midfielder has already left for Qatar to begin rehabilitation with his club, Al Shahaniya.
His absence will be keenly felt as Sierra Leone look to secure their first win in Group G of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
The Leone Stars currently find themselves at the bottom of the group after being held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Chad in their opening game.
Meanwhile, Zambia will also be looking for redemption after suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Ivory Coast in their first match.
With both teams eager to get their qualification campaigns back on track, the encounter in Zambia takes on added significance.
Koroma’s unavailability leaves a gap in the midfield that will require quick adaptation from the Sierra Leone squad.
Coach John Keister must now rely on his other options to fill the void left by one of his most dependable players.
As they travel to Zambia for what promises to be a tense match, Sierra Leone will need to draw on their depth and resilience to come away with a result that keeps their qualification hopes alive.
Sierra Leone departed from Liberia earlier today, heading towards Zambia with the knowledge that their campaign could hinge on the outcome of this critical fixture.
Without Koroma’s skill and leadership in midfield, the Leone Stars face an uphill battle.
However, the team remains determined to rise to the challenge and secure a much-needed victory.
Both teams will be under immense pressure as they look to recover from underwhelming starts to their qualifying campaigns.
With the top two spots in the group still wide open, a win for either side could prove pivotal as the race for qualification to AFCON 2025 intensifies.
