His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Sierra Leone National U20 Boys team, known as the Shooting Stars, for their historic qualification for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U20 tournament in South Africa.

This marks the first time in the country’s history that the U20 team has reached the finals.

In a statement, President Bio expressed his pride in the team’s achievement, stating, “Hearty congratulations to our National U20 Boys team that has qualified for the first time in our country’s history for the finals of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup Nations.

You have made every Sierra Leonean very proud, and your momentous achievement is a testament to what we, as a country, stand to achieve with the right governance for sports.”

The president emphasized the significance of this milestone for Sierra Leone, highlighting the nation’s deep passion for football.

“Although Sierra Leone is already a great football-loving nation, as President, I believe we can continue to harness the power of sports to promote national unity and development,” he added.

The qualification of the Shooting Stars not only showcases the talent and hard work of the young athletes but also serves as an inspiration for future generations in the country.

As the team prepares for the tournament, the nation stands united in support of their endeavor on the continental stage.