Northern Stars Win Bombali Championship, Advance to FA Cup Round of 32

Northern Stars Win Bombali Championship, Advance to FA Cup Round of 32

In a compelling conclusion to the Bombali District preliminary phase of the Sierra Leone FA Cup, Northern Stars emerged victorious following a high-stakes penalty shootout against Sahid Conteh-U. The win officially confirms their progression to the national Round of 32.

Hosted at the historic Wusum Field, the final attracted a substantial audience and a distinguished delegation of football administrators from the Northern and Northeast regions. The event underscored the vital role of grassroots competitions within Sierra Leone’s premier knockout tournament.

Both clubs maintained a disciplined approach throughout the encounter, recognizing the significance of advancing to the national stage and the potential for continental qualification. The first half was characterized by defensive organization, with neither side able to capitalize on limited scoring opportunities before the interval.

While Sahid Conteh-U demonstrated offensive intent, a lack of clinical finishing prevented an early lead. Conversely, Northern Stars utilized a structured build-up play but found it difficult to breach a resilient opposition backline.

The intensity increased in the second half, with both teams finding the net to conclude regulation time at 1-1. The scoreline accurately reflected the balanced nature of the match, as neither side managed to achieve sustained dominance.

With the deadlock unbroken after 90 minutes, the match moved to a penalty shootout. Northern Stars exhibited superior composure, defeating Sahid Conteh-U 5-4. This victory secures the Bombali District title and mandates their participation in the next phase, where they are set to compete against top-tier clubs, including representatives from the Premier League.

The final was attended by prominent stakeholders, including Bombali District FA Chairman Sulaiman Sillah Sesay and Secretary Robert Melvin Turay. Also in attendance were Falaba District FA Chairman Balla Kargbo, former Regional Secretary Abdul Rahman Kamara, and Acting Northeast Region FA Chairman Abdul Pascal Gbla.

The event was further elevated by the presence of Abu Bakarr Mansaray, Chairman of the Kono District FA, and legendary Sierra Leonean footballer Musu Pele Bangura. Their participation highlighted the importance of district-level tournaments as the cornerstone of national football development.

The presence of these officials emphasized the significance of district-level competitions as the foundation of national football development.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) administers the FA Cup as the nation’s primary knockout competition. It serves as a critical pathway for lower-division clubs to gain national exposure and earn a place in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Abdul Osman Turay, Chairman of the FA Cup Organizing Committee, noted that the 2026 campaign commenced with the committee’s formation on January 12, followed by district kickoffs on February 14. He confirmed that 14 district qualifiers will join 18 Premier League clubs to finalize the 32-team bracket.

Mr. Turay commended the district associations for their administrative excellence and congratulated Northern Stars on their achievement. He issued a formal invitation to all qualified teams for the Round of 32 draw, scheduled for April 4, 2026, at the Orange headquarters.

While the sporting achievements were celebrated, administrative questions persist regarding the Le 15,000 participation stipend promised to district qualifiers. These funds were not disbursed during the final, and the specific reasons for the delay have not been publicly disclosed.

Reports indicate that engagements with relevant authorities are ongoing to resolve this matter. Further updates will be provided as official information is released.

As the FA Cup progresses, observers remain keen to see if Northern Stars can maintain their momentum and challenge the established elite of Sierra Leonean football.