Sierra Leone’s national football team head coach, Amidu Karim, has emphasized the importance of meticulous player selection as he gears up for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

With the Leone Stars drawn into Group G alongside former champions Zambia, Chad, and defending champions Côte d’Ivoire, Karim’s strategy is to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.

The qualifiers will see Sierra Leone face Chad on September 6 in Liberia, followed by a crucial match against Zambia on September 9 in Zambia. Sierra Leone’s history with their Group G opponents includes a past victory over Chad in a 2015 World Cup qualifier, and a tough 4-0 defeat to Zambia in the 1996 AFCON. Additionally, Sierra Leone aims to break Côte d’Ivoire’s unbeaten record against them.

Coach Karim is in the final stages of his tactical preparations, focusing on integrating talent from local teams like Bo Rangers and East End Lions, as well as emerging under-20 players. He underscores the need for the squad to stay sharp despite the lengthy break since the conclusion of the Sierra Leone Premier League. Karim’s commitment to scouting a diverse pool of talent reflects his strategic approach to assembling a well-rounded team for the qualifiers.