News is making rounds that Sierra Leone’s national football team, the Leone Stars, may not be able to honour their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures against Chad and Zambia due to ongoing financial constraints.

The National Sports Authority (NSA) of Sierra Leone, which manages the funding for the team, is reportedly yet to receive the necessary finances for the crucial matches.

As the Leone Stars prepare for a pivotal clash against Chad on November 13, sources indicate that the team has yet to be allocated the funding needed for travel, accommodation, and other logistical support. This situation follows a similar pattern, with the team facing similar financial difficulties before their previous two qualifying matches.

The upcoming match against Chad is vital for Sierra Leone’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON, and the lack of funds could undermine the team’s preparation and performance. Despite the government’s usual support for the team, it seems that financial mismanagement or delays in disbursements may have left the NSA struggling to ensure the team’s readiness for the fixture.

Should the situation not be addressed promptly, there are growing concerns that the Leone Stars may be forced to forfeit the match, a decision that would severely impact the team’s qualification campaign and national pride.

The NSA is under increasing pressure to secure the necessary funding, as the November 13 clash fast approaches. Fans and football stakeholders are anxiously awaiting updates, hoping that the team’s financial difficulties can be resolved in time to ensure the continuation of their AFCON journey.