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Football enthusiasts have raised serious concerns following reports that the national U-20 football team in Egypt may boycott training sessions and matches over unpaid allowances.
Recent media reports revealed that the Shooting Stars are frustrated over delayed bonuses from the West African Football Union (WAFU) tournament in Liberia, as well as training allowances accumulated during their four-month preparation for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The total amount owed to each player is reported to be around Le 22,579,502 (Old Leones), or approximately \$1,000. The players and staff are said to have received just one payment since the qualifiers.
Tensions reportedly escalated earlier this week after media sources indicated that the team delayed a scheduled training session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. as a form of protest.
With the team’s next match against Tanzania on May 3rd quickly approaching, there are growing concerns that the players may boycott the game unless the financial issue is resolved.
In response to these developments, popular facebook Sport page Sierra Leone Premier League Updates issued a statement online, expressing deep concern and requesting clarification from the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA). The Board raised critical questions about what has led to the alleged boycott, who might be behind it, and the role of the large delegation that traveled with the team to Egypt.
The statement emphasized that, at this pivotal moment in the tournament, the focus should be on unity, discipline, and national pride. The Premier League Board urged the SLFA to act quickly and transparently to address these concerns, ensuring that the integrity of the team and the hopes of Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad remain intact.
Despite the ongoing financial dispute, the Shooting Stars have had a strong start in the tournament, leading Group A after a 1-1 draw with Zambia and a 4-1 victory over Egypt. The team remains in camp in Ismailia, preparing for their next fixture.
As of Thursday evening, the Sierra Leone Football Association had not responded publicly to the Premier League Board’s concerns.
