By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

Head coach for Sierra Leone’s National male football team, the Leone Stars, Mohamed Kallon, has assured Sierra Leoneans of winning the remaining 4 matches in the World Cup Qualifying tournament, despite the team’s sad defeat against Egypt.

Coach Kallon said: “We knew we were playing against one of the greatest teams in Africa, we knew it was going to be difficult, we knew we were playing against a stronger team in Africa with great players that can hurt you anytime, that is why we planned the game differently. We have eighteen home-based players in the team; over 70% of the boys are under 17, 18 and 19. That is why we tried to close the channels and combine a few passes, but we were unlucky because we were playing against a great side. We have 4 more games, and anything can happen, and we are going out to win our 4 games and have our 12 points.”

Egypt maintained their perfect record in World Cup qualifying with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sierra Leone at the Cairo International Stadium last time the two teams met.

Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed’s strike just before halftime proved the difference, keeping the Pharaohs firmly atop Group A with 16 points from six matches. The electric atmosphere in Cairo reflected the home side’s early intent.

Mohamed Salah looked particularly dangerous in the opening exchanges, but Sierra Leone goalkeeper Alhaji Sesay was up to the task, denying the Liverpool star on several occasions.