In a historic first-ever league meeting, newcomers Abacha City Football Club delivered a statement performance, edging past Freetonians SLIFA with a 2-1 victory at the Approved School Field. The win sees them temporarily climb to fourth place in the Leone Rock Premier League standings, while SLIFA continue to struggle near the foot of the table.

Despite SLIFA entering the match as favorites, Abacha City proved to be the more determined side. The opening minutes saw a cautious approach from both teams, with neither showing urgency in attack. However, it was the hosts who looked more threatening, with Ishmail Kuyateh and Lamin Kamara both testing SLIFA goalkeeper Unisa Conteh, though their early efforts lacked the precision to break the deadlock.

Abacha City’s patience paid off in the 18th minute when Lamin Kamara capitalized on a well-worked move to slot home the opening goal. With momentum on their side, the hosts doubled their lead in the 29th minute as Emerson Amos finished clinically, sending the home crowd into celebration.

After a subdued first half, SLIFA emerged with renewed intent, controlling possession and pushing forward in search of a breakthrough. Their persistence was rewarded in the 61st minute when Amara Keita produced a fine finish to halve the deficit. However, despite their late push, Abacha City’s resilient defense held firm, securing a crucial victory and condemning SLIFA to yet another frustrating result.

This win lifts Abacha City to fourth place with 12 points from seven matches, marking an impressive start to their debut top-flight campaign, with back-to-back victories over Bai Bureh Warriors and Freetonian SLIFA. Meanwhile, SLIFA remain in 14th place with just five points from seven matches. In contrast, SLIFA have now gone five matches without a win since their last 1-0 win in the abandoned game against FC Kallon.

Looking ahead, Abacha City will take on Freetown City FC at the Approved School Field on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, while Freetonian SLIFA will face Kamboi Eagles at the same venue on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as they desperately seek a turnaround in fortunes.