Leone Stars End Home Test Matches on a Winning Note Against Bhantal FC
Sia Lucy Kannah The national team, Leone Stars, wrapped up their home technical test matches with a 1–0 victory over Leone Rock Premier League runners-up Bhantal FC at the Approved School Playing Field.
The test matches serve as a preparatory exercise for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Guinea-Bissau and Ethiopia on September 4th and 9th, 2025.
The lone goal of the encounter came in the second half, giving Leone Stars their first win in the two-match series after a 1–0 loss to league champions East End Lions in yesterday’s match. Team officials explained that the fixtures are designed to help sharpen tactics, build team cohesion, and evaluate individual player performances ahead of the qualifiers.
During the series, Leone Stars also suffered a 2–0 defeat to East End Lions.
Newly appointed Team Manager Abdul Karim Bangura added a lighthearted touch to the matches, presenting both Leone Stars and Bhantal FC with Le 5,000 each, with an additional Le 10,000 awarded to Leone Stars as winners of the day.
Speaking after the game, Head Coach Mohamed Kallon expressed satisfaction with the preparations, stating that he had achieved all he needed from the home exercises. He added that he is now ready to integrate both foreign-based and home-based players to form a strong squad capable of bringing pride to the nation.
The match attracted thousands of fans from across Freetown, who witnessed an entertaining and competitive display of Sierra Leonean football.