Former Leone Stars Defender Abu ‘Syrian’ Bangura has passed away today 13th September 2023.

According to SierraEye, Bangura was arguably the best full back to ever wear the Leone Stars jersey. His art of shadowing the ball without contact was pure genius.

With his brilliant football skill, many have described him as a true gentleman on and off the pitch.

Bangura started his football journey in Kissy as a pupil for Independent Secondary School. However, his first professional career was when he signed Division Three side, Caxton. He would later be nicknamed ‘Yellow Man’ during his early playing days.

The former side back later signed for Bolton (later named Freetown Unite) and had a wonderful career. His best playing time arguably was when he signed for Real Republicans.

His fantastic stint at the club earned him a national call up. Bangura later captained Leone Stars in the mid 70s.

He ended his professional career at Real Republicans where he was teammates with Brima Mazolla Kamara and Jebbor Sherrington.

The legendary defender will be Sadly missed by his close relatives and the Sierra Leone football Family.