By Alhaji Turay
Sierra Leone’s football has hit a rough patch, struggling to maintain the glory it once enjoyed. Despite the enduring passion of fans and the historical importance of the game, the state of football in the country has steadily declined. Comparisons to the vibrant football era under the National Provisional Ruling Council (NPRC) led by Captain Valentine E.M. Strasser, only deepen the frustration felt by many.
Declining Standards
Veteran sports commentator and analyst Ziad Kudsy, who has been a prominent voice in Sierra Leonean football since the 1980s, reflects on the sport’s past achievements. He recalls a time when the national team, Leone Stars, excelled, winning the Amílcar Cabral Zone 2 tournament and qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and Ivory Coast.
Today, however, those glory days feel distant. The Leone Stars has struggled to qualify for major tournaments, disappointing fans who once cheered for players like Mohamed Kallon, the late Junior Tumbu, and Mamadu Alphajor Bah.
Domestic League Performance
While there have been moments of promise in the domestic league, systemic issues have overshadowed these glimmers of hope. Some players have successfully transitioned to international careers, but the overall lack of structure and investment in the domestic leagues have stifled consistent progress.
Players such as the late Mamadu Alphajor Bah and Mohamed Kallon, once brought international recognition to Sierra Leonean football. Today, the domestic leagues and national team lack the developmental framework to produce similar talent.
Leadership and Structural Challenges
The transition of leadership within the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), from Isha Johansen to current President, Thomas Daddy Brima, has not led to significant improvements. Critics argue that the SLFA has failed to implement the necessary reforms to rejuvenate the sport, even though Thomas Daddy Brima has shown some leadership quality by building artificial turf stadium in kono, Port Loko and Approved school, he has done great in the sporting areas, especially football.
A Vision for the Future
Ziad Kudsy and other experts have outlined potential solutions to revive football in Sierra Leone:
- Reviving the Domestic League: Strengthening the domestic league is essential for nurturing homegrown talent and building a strong foundation for the national team.
- Professional Coaching Systems: Bringing in experienced international coaches and establishing a qualified technical team can help elevate the performance of both the national team and home-based players.
- Involvement of Former Players: Football legends like Mohamed Kallon and other retired professionals should be actively involved in coaching, scouting, and mentorship programs. Their expertise could help identify and nurture talents at all levels.
- Merit-Based Player Selection: The SLFA must prioritize skill and performance over favoritism to ensure that only the best players represent the country.
Conclusion
Sierra Leone’s football, once a source of immense pride, now stands at a crossroads. Reviving its former glory will require a united effort from the SLFA, former players, fans, and stakeholders. With strategic leadership and investment, Sierra Leonean football can rise again, reclaiming its place on the international stage and bringing joy to its passionate supporters.