Crystal Palace’s rising star, Hindolo Mustapha, has been called up to represent Sierra Leone in their opening African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches. The young midfielder, who signed his first professional contract with the Eagles in January, has impressed both at club and international levels, securing a place in the national team for the upcoming fixtures.

Mustapha, who has been with Crystal Palace since the age of nine, has developed into a dynamic and versatile player. Known for his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, he has been a standout in the club’s youth system. His performance during the 2022/23 season was particularly notable, where he scored his first goal in a 2-2 draw against Fulham. Across 18 appearances for the Under-18s, he netted twice and demonstrated consistent growth in his game.

In the current 2023/24 season, Mustapha made his first start for the Crystal Palace Under-21s in the Premier League Cup against Middlesbrough and showcased his potential by scoring in his second appearance against Nottingham Forest U21s. His progress in the club’s youth setup has clearly caught the attention of the Sierra Leone national team selectors.

The call-up marks a significant milestone in Mustapha’s career as he transitions from youth football into the senior ranks, both domestically and internationally. His selection for the AFCON qualifiers presents a valuable opportunity for the young midfielder to showcase his talent on a larger stage and contribute to Sierra Leone’s ambitions of reaching the African continent’s most prestigious football tournament.