By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has emphasized that the value of Government and taxpayer investment in the Leone Stars depends on the team’s ability to win matches. His comments came after a disappointing 0-0 draw against Chad during a post-match briefing held last Friday.
Dr. Saffa Abdulai made it clear that the Government can no longer justify paying bonuses for drawn matches, especially when playing on home soil. “This result is not what Sierra Leoneans expected,” he stated, highlighting the substantial financial support the Government provides to the national football team. “The only way to truly give back to the people of Sierra Leone is by winning matches, particularly when facing opponents we are capable of defeating.”
He expressed his disappointment, noting that the outcome did not align with Leone Stars’ previous strong performance in the World Cup qualifiers. The NSA Executive Director stressed the importance of securing victories, especially if Sierra Leone aims to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. “If we are serious about qualifying, we must start winning our home games,” he added.
He further pointed out that the team’s slow starts in AFCON and FIFA qualifying campaigns have become a concerning trend, often leading to last-minute struggles for qualification. He urged the players to break this cycle and take charge of their destiny by securing consistent wins.
Group G Standings:
– Ivory Coast: 3 points (1st)
– Sierra Leone: 1 point (2nd)
– Chad: 1 point (3rd)
– Zambia: 0 points (4th)
The NSA, established by an Act of Parliament, is tasked with promoting, developing and supervising all sporting activities across Sierra Leone. The Authority continues to push for improved performances from national teams as a reflection of the Government’s significant investments in sports development.
