Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Sierra Leone women’s national football team, the Sierra Queens, have made history by securing their first-ever semifinal berth in the WAFU A Women’s Championship after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Senegal on Tuesday night.
In a tense final group-stage match at the Stade Cheikha Boïdiya in Mauritania, the Sierra Queens held tournament favorites Senegal to a 1-1 draw, ensuring their progression to the knockout stage. The result marks a historic milestone for women’s football in Sierra Leone, showcasing the team’s resilience and tactical discipline.
Goalkeeper Hannah Juana was once again instrumental, earning her second Woman of the Match award in the tournament. Her crucial saves, including a stunning late stop to deny Senegal a winning goal, ensured Sierra Leone secured the vital point needed to advance.
The Queens entered the match needing a strong result after a mixed group stage—a 3-0 loss to Gambia followed by a 3-1 comeback win against Guinea. Their fate also depended on the Gambia-Guinea fixture, but their determined performance against an already-qualified Senegal side sealed their place in the semifinals.
The historic achievement highlights the growth of women’s football in Sierra Leone, driven by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) through structured league development and talent investment. Head Coach Ernest Hallowell praised the team’s unity and fighting spirit, calling the qualification “a reward for years of hard work.”
With momentum on their side, the Sierra Queens now prepare for their semifinal clash, where they will face either hosts Mauritania or another top contender. Fans across Sierra Leone have rallied behind the team, with social media buzzing under the hashtag #QueensRoar.
“We’re not done yet—onward to the semifinals!” the SLFA declared in a post-match statement.
This breakthrough performance not only elevates Sierra Leone’s standing in West African football but also inspires a new generation of female athletes in the country.
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