Aminata Fullah from Magburaka has been appointed as the centre referee for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier between Cameroon and Egypt.

This appointment marks a monumental milestone, as it is the first time in 23 years that a Sierra Leonean referee will officiate at a FIFA match. Joining her on the officiating team is compatriot Humu Marrah, who will serve as the fourth official.

The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) expressed immense pride in this development, highlighting the significance of Fullah’s appointment for the country’s refereeing community.

The last time Sierra Leone had a referee officiate a FIFA match was in 2001, when Alhaji Sanusi Rashid, now Chairman of the Sierra Leone Referees Organization, officiated a FIFA U20 World Cup qualifier between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

“This long-awaited return to the global stage is a testament to the steady growth of refereeing in Sierra Leone under the leadership of my Executive and the Referees Association,” the SLFA President noted.

Aminata Fullah’s appointment is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiring moment for the nation’s football community. Her role in this high-profile match symbolizes the progress Sierra Leonean referees have made on the international stage.

“As Aminata steps onto the field for this historic match, she carries with her the pride and aspirations of an entire nation,” the SLFA President remarked. “We celebrate her achievement and look forward to the many doors her success will open for Sierra Leone refereeing.”

This landmark moment underscores the growing prominence of Sierra Leonean referees and sets a hopeful precedent for future appointments in international football events.