The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) is pleased to announce that the national U17 team has been officially reinstated into the ongoing U17 WAFU Tournament, following a successful appeal regarding the MRI test results of five players in Senegal.

Initially, the Sierra Leone U17 team faced disqualification after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the West African Football Union (WAFU) raised concerns over the eligibility of five players, based on MRI testing used to determine age compliance. The SLFA swiftly lodged an appeal, seeking a retest to ensure fairness for the young athletes.

CAF and WAFU conducted the retest, and results confirmed that two out of the five players passed, meeting the required threshold under Article 27.4 of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations Regulations. With this outcome, Sierra Leone’s U17 team was cleared to re-enter the tournament.

Expressing gratitude, the SLFA extended heartfelt thanks to the Sierra Leonean public, football fans, and supporters worldwide who rallied behind the team during the appeal. “Your unwavering support has been instrumental in achieving this positive result,” the SLFA statement emphasized.

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The association also acknowledged CAF and WAFU for their professionalism and dedication to upholding the regulations of the tournament, ensuring a fair and transparent process throughout the appeal.

As the reinstated U17 squad prepares to compete, the SLFA affirmed its confidence in the team’s ability to represent Sierra Leone with pride and distinction on the continental stage. The nation looks forward to seeing the young talents showcase their skills and compete in the tournament.