By Mohamed Kamara
As the September 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaches, much speculation surrounds Sierra Leone’s chances of advancing through the qualifying stages. The Leone Stars will face Zambia and Chad in Morocco, but several concerns and considerations remain as the tournament nears.
In Sierra Leone, player selection often involves political and influential societal factors, coupled with allegations of bribery. Unlike many other countries where player selection is strictly based on performance and regular monitoring, Sierra Leone’s approach sometimes includes less transparent methods. Internationally, player selections are generally driven by consistent performance evaluations and technical assessments, which are critical for building a competitive team.
The Leone Stars have experienced frequent coaching changes, with varying preferences between foreign and local coaches. However, national teams typically select coaches based on proven records and past successes.
On the field, the Leone Stars struggle with team cohesion due to limited preparation time. The lack of understanding between defense, midfield, and attack units often hampers their performance, with the team frequently starting strong in the second half only to fall short as opponents gain an early advantage. Rapid response and sharp focus are essential for success.
For those assuming an easy qualification path against Zambia and Chad, caution is advised. Despite a tragic plane crash over a decade ago that impacted Zambian football, the nation has since regenerated with a new generation of talented players. Zambia now ranks among the top three in East Africa and within the top fifteen in Africa for both male and female football.
Chad, on the other hand, has made significant strides with its emphasis on physical fitness, speed, and teamwork. This progress makes them a formidable opponent capable of delivering surprising results.
The outcome of the encounters with Zambia and Chad will be clearer come September. Until then, expectations should be tempered, and both teams should be considered serious contenders.
