The Sierra Leone senior national football team, known as the Leone Stars, has officially kicked off their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a rigorous training camp at the SLFA Football Academy in Kingtom, Freetown.

This marks the beginning of their campaign ahead of the highly anticipated tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Following the official qualification draw held in Rabat, Morocco, the Leone Stars’ technical team immediately mobilized the squad to commence training.

The first session, overseen by the coaching staff, was designed to focus on building the players’ fitness levels and laying down the tactical foundation needed for the upcoming AFCON qualification rounds. The objective was to set a professional standard for the team’s preparation as they aim for a successful return to the continental competition.

The camp has seen a strong mix of domestic and international players. Local talents from the Sierra Leone Premier League are being joined by several foreign-based professionals who are taking advantage of their holiday break in Freetown.

This early integration is viewed as crucial for maintaining peak match conditioning and fostering team unity. The presence of these international players is expected to provide valuable experience and mentorship, contributing to the overall cohesion of the squad.

As the Leone Stars continue their preparations, they are focusing on tactical discipline, optimal physical conditioning, and seamless coordination between domestic and international players.

These efforts are geared towards ensuring a strong performance in the qualification matches leading up to the 2027 AFCON. With heightened competition for qualification, the Leone Stars are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for success.

The team’s preparations will continue in the coming months, with the first official FIFA international window of 2026 marking a key milestone in their journey towards the 2027 AFCON.