SLFA Secures Key International Friendlies for Leone Stars Ahead of AFCON 2027

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has confirmed that the Leone Stars will participate in a series of international friendly matches, a strategic move aimed at preparing the national team for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh revealed that the SLFA President and Executive Committee have successfully secured matches against Azerbaijan, St. Lucia, and Oman as part of the team’s pre-qualifier preparations.

“These international friendlies are crucial in giving our players the exposure and competitive experience they need ahead of AFCON 2027,” Bawoh said. “It is part of our strategy to ensure the Leone Stars are match-ready and able to compete at the highest level.”

Bawoh also highlighted that the SLFA is taking steps to strengthen player welfare, noting that about 80% of SLFA staff have been trained as Safeguarding Officers, and all personnel have completed FIFA’s online safeguarding training. “Safety remains an integral part of our football development process,” he added.

In addition to preparing the national team, Bawoh disclosed that the SLFA President has engaged the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Ministry of Sports to ensure greater autonomy for the association. “If we are to qualify for AFCON 2027, the Leone Stars must be managed 100% by the SLFA. This is something that will soon become a thing of the past,” he stressed.

The international friendlies are expected to provide the Leone Stars with valuable match experience, tactical development, and exposure to different playing styles, all of which are seen as essential in the team’s bid to succeed in the continental qualifiers.

Through these initiatives, the SLFA continues to demonstrate its commitment to professional football development in Sierra Leone, balancing player safety, competitive readiness, and organizational independence.