By Ibrahim Larim Bangura (Tanko)
As the U-20 WAFA tournament sets to commence in Darka Senegal, the Head Coach of the U-20 female national team, Fatmata Turay, has unveiled the squad comprising 20 players who are regular to represent the nation in the upcoming competition, thus the team will start their rigorous training regimen at the SLFA Academy next week Monday and are in high spirit anticipation of the competition.
Speaking to Africa-24 sports desk, Coach Fatmata Turay expressed confidence in her squad, emphasizing their readiness to showcase their skills on the international stage and make Sierra Leone proud; adding that the selected players, comprising a mix of defenders, midfielders, and forwards, represent some of the finest aptitudes from various clubs across the country.
In the midst of the players selected are standout talents such as Ishatu A. Koroma, Fatmata L. Kamara, and Salamatu S. Kamara, who have proven themselves in their respective clubs including Koya Queens FC, Mogbwemo Queens FC, and Mena Queens FC.
Meanwhile, the team boasts a balance of experience and youthful vigor, with players like Marie Kamara and Isata Mansaray bringing their expertise to the team.
The midfield is expected to be controlled by the likes of Ishatu O. Kamara, Kumba Abu, Aminata Conteh, and Juliet Brima, who have shown exceptional prowess in dictating play and creating scoring opportunities.
Upfront, the team will rely on the attacking prowess of players like Fatmata Turay, Kadiatu M. Kamara, and Aminata I. Kamara to deliver goals and secure victories.
While, in defense, the team is fortified with players like Fatmata T. Koroma, Isatu A. Bangura, and Adama Kamara, who are tasked with thwarting the opposition’s advances and ensuring a solid backline. The squad is completed by players like Ramatu Bangura, Sallay Turay, Adama Mansaray, and Marian Jumu, who are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
However, U-20 WAFU competition presents an opportunity for Sierra Leone’s youth footballers to test their skills against top talent from across the sub-region. With difficult training and meticulous preparation underway, the team is poised to give their all and compete fiercely for glory.
“We believe the players are well and determined to write a new episode in Sierra Leonean football account and leave a permanent legacy on the international stage,” he says.