By: alusinerehme.wilson@awokonewspapersl.com
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Sierra Leone’s rising football star, Momoh Ibrahim Kamara, has made headlines across the continent following a sensational debut at the 2025 TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
At just 20 years old, the dynamic midfielder and captain of Sierra Leone’s U-20 squad not only secured the Golden Boot with four goals in five games but also earned a coveted place in the CAF Team of the Tournament — a rare achievement for a player whose team bowed out at the quarterfinals.
Kamara’s most electrifying moment came during the group stage clash against Egypt, where he netted the tournament’s only hat trick, powering Sierra Leone to a commanding 4-1 victory. His explosive performance lit up the tournament and sent a clear message that Sierra Leone’s youth football is on the rise.
Although the Shooting Stars narrowly lost 1-0 to Morocco in the quarterfinals, Kamara’s leadership, creativity, and attacking brilliance stood out throughout the campaign. His efforts earned him a spot in CAF’s Group Stage Best XI alongside teammate Nathaniel Jalloh, and later, a well-deserved selection in the final tournament Best XI, curated by the CAF Technical Study Group (TSG).
Remarkably, Kamara is the only player in the Team of the Tournament whose side did not reach the semifinals — a testament to his individual excellence and impact on the pitch.
The final Best XI, set up in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation, was dominated by players from tournament winners South Africa and runners-up Morocco. South Africa also swept the individual accolades, with Tylon Smith named Best Player, Fletcher Lowe awarded Best Goalkeeper, and Raymond Mdaka honored as Best Coach.
Morocco claimed the Fair Play Award, while Nigeria’s Daniel Bameyi joined Kamara as standout individuals from non-finalist nations.
Kamara’s stellar debut on the continental stage has not only brought pride to Sierra Leone but also set the tone for what promises to be a brilliant footballing career. For the young captain of the Shooting Stars, the journey has only just begun — and the world is now watching. ARW/21/5/2025
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