AYV News, October 15, 2024

The Minister of Sports, Augusta James-Teima attended the Leone Stars’ first training session at the SKD Stadium practicing field, as the team prepared for their fourth-leg match against Ivory Coast in the 2025 Nations Cup Qualifiers.

Following the training, the Minister held a motivational meeting with the players, encouraging them to move past their disappointing result from the previous match against Ivory Coast. “I know you are not happy with the outcome,” she stated. “However, let’s consider it a bad dream and focus on the upcoming match. Winning this game is crucial for our standing in the qualifiers.”

Madam James-Teima assured the team of the government’s unwavering support, emphasizing that they have the backing of President JMB, football stakeholders, and fans across Sierra Leone. “The government is doing everything possible to provide financial support. Go out on Tuesday and defeat the Elephants; it’s your home match. Salone stands fully behind you,” she urged.

Madam James-Teima expressed her confidence in the players and the technical team, imploring them to select a winning squad. “Make your President and Mama Salone proud. You can do it!” she concluded.

Also present at the training session were notable figures including TM Bah, International Sports, Ambassador Christian Dauda, SLFA Director of Competitions Sorie Ibrahim Sesay, Sports Ambassador Charlie Junior Bio, Acting General Secretary Benson Bawah, Albert Debbie accountant-NSA, Alhaji Maddy, deputy accountant – NSA, Momodu Alpha, SSDO-MOS, National Coordinator James Fofanah, and various sports journalists.

The Leone Stars are determined to secure a victory against Ivory Coast, setting the stage for a thrilling contest that could significantly impact their journey in the qualifying rounds.