In an unexpected turn of events, Sierra Leone’s Leone Stars were held to a 0-0 draw by Chad in their AFCON 2025 qualifier, played on Friday at the SKD Sports Complex in Monrovia. The result fell short of the expectations of many sports pundits who anticipated a decisive victory for the Sierra Leone side against the perceived underdogs.
The match began with high hopes for the hosts but missed opportunities by Charlton Athletic forward Daniel Kanu and teammate Augustus Kargbo meant the Leone Stars were unable to capitalize on their chances. Despite their dominance, the visitors from Chad held firm, resisting the pressure and securing a valuable away point.
Chad, led by captain Marius Marius Mouandilmadji, managed three shots on goal, although they were repeatedly caught offside. Despite Sierra Leone’s 64.3% possession compared to Chad’s 35.7%, the Leone Stars could not break the deadlock.
Chad’s head coach, Kevin Nicaise, praised the result as a significant achievement. “A point away in Africa is always valuable,” he said, acknowledging the importance of the draw while expressing hopes for better performances in future matches.
Sierra Leone’s head coach, Amidu Karim, regarded the draw as “a good start” but stressed the need for improvement in their remaining group games. “We still have five matches left, and our chances for qualifying for the 2025 AFCON remain strong. A win against Zambia on Monday will put us in a good position,” Karim noted, urging fans to move past the result against Chad.
As it stands, Sierra Leone and Chad are tied in Group G, each with one point. Sierra Leone will face bottom-placed Zambia on Monday, following Zambia’s 2-0 defeat to reigning AFCON champions Ivory Coast, who now lead the group with three points.
By Awokonewspapers
Hopefully football on monday = a win after a looooooooong time. LET the boys show some resilience & play for pride. We need to qualify.
We do not need excuses score the much needed goals ka 5 – 0 can be nice. I sound clue less but that score line would turn our fortunes around with the much needed boost as it has not happened in a verrry very very loooooong time. Just keep scoring without conceding win all home games in style.