Leone Stars Build Momentum Ahead of Zimbabwe AFCON Qualifier
Leone Stars players and technical staff have reinforced their focus on unity, discipline and collective responsibility as Sierra Leone prepares to open its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Zimbabwe.
The squad held a team meeting in Morocco on Tuesday after completing its first official training session ahead of Thursday’s Group E encounter.
The meeting was led by head coach Didier Gomez Da Roza, with Team Manager Abdul Karim Bangura also addressing the squad.
Gomez Da Roza emphasized the importance of togetherness and collective effort, urging the players to remain focused on their shared objective as preparations enter the final stages.
Bangura reminded the players and technical staff of their responsibility as representatives of Sierra Leone, calling on them to work together to achieve success for the country and secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Captain Osman Kakay also addressed the squad, highlighting the importance of leadership, discipline, respect, adherence to team rules and unity.
Kakay and experienced teammate Sallieu Tarawallie concluded the session with words of encouragement, urging the players to maintain their determination and concentration ahead of the opening fixture.
The team also reviewed Zimbabwe’s strengths and approach as preparations continued for the Group E qualifier.
CAF has confirmed that Sierra Leone will face Zimbabwe on Thursday, September 24, at 7 p.m. GMT in the opening match of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The match is part of a six-match group-stage campaign involving Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Sierra Leone will then travel to face Equatorial Guinea on September 28 in the second match of the opening qualifying window.