Leone Stars Squad Dominated by Home-Based Players for World Cup Qualifiers
By Mohamed Toby Kargbo
For the first time in recent history, Sierra Leone’s national football team, Leone Stars, will feature more home-based players than foreign-based ones in their squad. Newly appointed head coach Mohamed Kallon has named 18 locally-based players in his final selection for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Guinea Bissau and Egypt.
Football administrators have long emphasized the importance of developing a national team around local talent. Coach Kallon appears to be embracing this philosophy, with six players from FC Kallon, three from Bhantal FC, and representatives from other clubs such as Wilberforce Strikers and East End Lions. Notable call-ups include Alhaji Sesay (Bhantal FC), Francis Koroma (Wilberforce Strikers), and Dauda Bangura (East End Lions).
Newly promoted Star Sport Academy’s captain, James Kaiyamba, and their latest signing, Sitta Bah, have also been included in the squad and are set to make their international debuts.
Speaking about his decision, Coach Kallon stressed the importance of improving the local league as a foundation for national team success. “We can only be better in the national team if we try to improve the standard of our league. That is the only way we can compete with the big nations in African football,” he stated.
This historic squad selection raises the question: What impact will a predominantly home-based team have on Leone Stars? While experience from foreign leagues has traditionally strengthened the squad, this shift could boost domestic football by giving local players international exposure and opportunities to develop at a higher level.
As Sierra Leone prepares for these crucial qualifiers, all eyes will be on the home-based stars to see if they can rise to the occasion and make their mark on the continental stage.
