Category: Sport News

Amadou bakayoko
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Amadou Bakayoko nets to help Consadole Sapporo triumph

Sierra Leone international Amadou Bakayoko made a significant impact during his team’s 2-1 win against Kataller Toyama on Saturday by scoring the equalizing goal after coming off the bench. Amadou Bakayoko Sapporo goal seals comeback victory in J2 League clash. This marked another standout Amadou Bakayoko Sapporo goal, contributing to his growing influence in the league.

This thrilling encounter occurred during Round 16 of the Japanese Premier League 2 (J2 League) at the Sapporo Dome, where Consadole Sapporo faced off against Toyama. It was another big moment for the Sierra Leone footballer in Japan, continuing to impress in his debut season.

Consadole Sapporo initially found themselves trailing 1-0 after Toyama opened the scoring. However, Amadou Bakayoko entered the match in the 68th minute and quickly changed the dynamics with a crucial equalizer — a textbook example of how vital he has become in the Amadou Bakayoko J2 League journey.

His skillful finish leveled the score and set the stage for an exciting finale. The momentum continued in the dying moments of the game when Ryota Aoki netted the dramatic winner in the 90+2nd minute, securing a comeback victory for Sapporo.

In a post-match interview, Amadou Bakayoko shared his reaction:

“Coming off the bench with the team down 1-0 and being able to make an impact by scoring a goal was incredibly fulfilling. It feels great to contribute to the team’s success and to see us secure the win in the end. I’m delighted to add another goal to my tally and help my team continue on the path to victory.”

Meanwhile, in another J2 League clash that day, Tosu edged past Akita 2-1 with goals from Nagasawa Sivatafari and Vikintas Slivka, highlighting the competitiveness across the league.

📊 Meiji Yasuda J2 League Standings

El Abdellaoui strike helps Morocco set U20 final date with South Africa
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

El Abdellaoui strike helps Morocco set U20 final date with South Africa

Morocco Beats Egypt to Reach CAF U 20 Africa Cup of Nations Final

Morocco has secured their spot in the final of the CAF U 20 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Egypt 1-0 in a tense semi-final clash on Thursday. The Morocco U20 team displayed great discipline and composure to advance.

CAF U 20 Africa Cup of Nations Semi-Final: A Tight Encounter

The match was closely contested, with both teams fighting hard for dominance. Egypt controlled the early phases but failed to break through Morocco’s organized defense. As the game progressed, Morocco gradually took control, with midfielders Reda Laalaoui and Hossam Essadak playing key roles.

El Abdellaoui’s Winning Goal

The turning point came in the 77th minute when substitute Jones El Abdellaoui scored from a perfectly delivered cross by Ismaël Aouad. The goal lifted Morocco and left Egypt chasing an equalizer.

Morocco’s Defense Shuts Down Egypt

Despite Egypt’s late push through players like Ahmed Kabaka and Mohamed Raafat, the Morocco U20 team stood firm. Their solid backline ensured they held on to their lead and kept a clean sheet.

What’s Next for the Final?

This win puts Morocco in the final of the CAF U 20, where they will face South Africa, who also won their CAF U-20 semi-final 1-0 against Nigeria. Meanwhile, Egypt will play Nigeria for third place.

Houssam Essadak claims Man of the Match award after a standout performance
Houssam Essadak claims Man of the Match award after a standout performance
SLFA President Brima, VP 1 Johnson attend 75th FIFA Congress alongside global leaders
by Football Sierra Leone

SLFA President Brima, VP 1 Johnson attend 75th FIFA Congress alongside global leaders

The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Thomas Daddy Brima, is currently in Asunción, Paraguay, attending the 75th FIFA Congress. He is joined by Vice President Harold Nat-Johnson and Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh.

This congress marks a significant moment in global football, as it celebrates FIFA’s 75th anniversary and welcomes leaders from all 211 member associations. It is the highest decision-making body in world football and sets the direction for the future of the game.

SLFA at 75th FIFA Congress: Strengthening Global Football Ties

The SLFA delegation is using the opportunity to engage with international football executives, explore partnerships, and advocate for football development in Sierra Leone. Their presence reaffirms the association’s commitment to good governance, collaboration, and investment in the local game.

“I am excited to have participated in the 75th FIFA Congress with my Vice President Harold Nat-Johnson and Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh,” said President Brima.

“This event focuses on key discussions shaping the future of football. We thank FIFA for its continued support and reaffirm SLFA’s dedication to being a respected voice in global football.”

Highlights from the 75th FIFA Congress

One major announcement was the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will take place in Miami, beginning on June 14. The tournament will feature 32 clubs and offer a prize pool of USD 1 billion, with an additional solidarity fund for non-participating teams. 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that all revenue will be reinvested into football to benefit clubs worldwide. He thanked global stakeholders for their contribution to making this event possible. The participation of the SLFA at 75th FIFA Congress marks a major step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s voice and presence in global football discussions.

The congress also discussed the ongoing implementation of the Global Stand Against Racism, which was approved during the previous FIFA Congress.

By attending this global gathering, SLFA leaders are ensuring Sierra Leone continues to grow within the international football community—both on and off the pitch.

The FIFA Congress is the top decision-making body for world football, bringing together representatives from all 211 member associations.
The FIFA Congress is the top decision-making body for world football, bringing together representatives from all 211 member associations.
Nigeria's International Taiwo Awoniyi's surgery was successful.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria’s International Taiwo Awoniyi’s surgery was successful

Nigerian International and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has awakened from an induced coma following surgery to correct a major abdominal injury he sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City. 

Having undergone the first phase of the operation on Monday, he spent Tuesday in an induced coma while medical staff observed his development as part of the process.

On Wednesday, Awoniyi completed the second phase of the surgery — wound closing — a successful procedure.

Taiwo Awoniyi Injury Update Highlights Nottingham Forest’s Commitment to Player Welfare

“The seriousness of his injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game, and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first. At Nottingham Forest, this principle is not just policy for us; it is the deeply held belief and conviction of our owner. To Evangelos Marinakis, this isn’t just a football club — it’s family – and he instils that message in all of us,” Nottingham Forest noted in their statement.

“That is why he was so personally and emotionally invested in the situation that unfolded at the City Ground on Sunday. His reaction was one of deep care, responsibility, and emotional investment in one of our own. He didn’t just see it as an isolated incident, but as something that reflected the values and unity of the entire team.”

Coach Kamara believes Sierra Leone earn respect despite quarter-final exit
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Coach Kamara believes Sierra Leone earn respect despite quarter-final exit

Sierra Leone’s remarkable first appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 concluded in disappointment as they were edged out 1-0 by Morocco following extra time in the quarter-finals.

A late own goal by defender Amara Keita dashed Sierra Leone’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals and qualifying for the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Despite the loss, head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara praised his team’s tenacity, stating, “We wanted to hold Morocco and take the game to penalties. But I am extremely proud of the boys—they showed character and the hearts of warriors.”

In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

Morocco’s coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, praised Sierra Leone, calling them “one of the hardest opponents we faced.” He noted, “They were resilient, organized, and showed they belong at this level.”

As Morocco advanced to the semi-finals, Sierra Leone left with dignity. Kamara stated, “This is just the beginning; it marks the inception of something hopeful. The boys have motivated a nation while also gaining respect within African football.”

In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
In their first-ever U-20 AFCON, Sierra Leone made headlines with a stunning 4-1 win over hosts Egypt and a gritty 1-0 victory against Tanzania. They proved to be one of the tournament’s surprise packages.