Sierra Leone’s U-20 men’s national team is set to make it to the semi-finals of the WAFU A U-20 tournament if they achieve a favourable outcome against Senegal on October 22 in Bamako, Mali.

The development comes after the Shooting Stars salvaged a dramatic 2-2 draw against Mauritania in their opening fixture, with Mohamed Bah striking in the 90th minute to rescue a valuable point for head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara’s side.

During the Monday evening match, Sierra Leone put themselves in front in the 23rd minute through Papay G. Mansaray but conceded twice before Bah’s late intervention ensured they avoided defeat.

The result leaves Mauritania on two points, while Sierra Leone and Senegal have one point each, according to the standings provided. Senegal also drew 1-1 against Mauritania, setting up a pivotal encounter between the Shooting Stars and their West African rivals.

With a place in the last four at stake, Sierra Leone’s experienced coach has acknowledged the importance of the upcoming fixture as his team seeks to keep their continental ambitions alive in the zonal tourney, which doubles as the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations qualifiers.

“We anticipate building on our opening-match result and delivering a winning performance against Senegal to keep our continental ambitions on track,” Kamara said.