Sierra Leone’s U17 boys national team (Sierra Stars) have been eliminated from the race for a spot in the 2027 Africa U17 Cup of Nations after a goalless draw with Mauritania in their final WAFU Zone A Championship group match on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

The draw offered little consolation after the Sierra Stars suffered heavy defeats to Gambia and Senegal, losing 4-1 and 5-0 respectively, to end their campaign without a win.

Assistant captain Abu Bakarr Senesie Maya Junior was the standout performer against Mauritania, earning the Player of the Match award for an impressive midfield display marked by defensive discipline and effective distribution.

Coached by Patrick Bangura, Sierra Stars struggled to compete with their West African opponents, with defensive lapses and a lack of cutting edge in attack undermining their hopes of advancing to the next stage of the continental qualification pathway.

The early elimination represents another setback for Sierra Leone’s youth football program and is likely to intensify calls for greater investment in grassroots scouting, competitive youth leagues, and long-term player development.

The result leaves the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) facing renewed pressure to strengthen the country’s youth football structures ahead of future international competitions.