By Nenneh Fofanah
Freetown, 22nd December 2025 – Parade Field, long celebrated as the heartbeat of grassroots football in Freetown, has increasingly become a stage for more than just amazing goals and raw talent. The Central One Football Association (COFA) Inter-Community League, a tournament that has energized local football for years, is now grappling with a troubling reputation, repeated outbreaks of violence.
What should be a showcase of community pride and youthful passion has too often descended into chaos. Fans have stormed the pitch mid-match, hurling stones, wielding sticks, and clashing with rival supporters and even officials. Facilities have been damaged, and games abandoned. While some blame poor officiating, others see deliberate attempts to influence results, or even misguided celebrations. Whatever the cause, the violence has become a recurring shadow over the competition.
The latest incident came during the semi-final clash between Mountain City and Portuguese Town. With the score tied 1–1 after full time, the match went to penalties. But midway through the shootout, tempers flared when Portuguese Town’s captain interfered with Mountain City’s goalkeeper, sparking chaos that forced the game to be abandoned.
Kemoh Sesay, COFA’s Head of Media, confirmed that the matter is now before the Disciplinary Committee. “The semi-final match between Mountain City and Portuguese Town was abandoned during penalties. A final decision will be communicated to the public in due course,” he said. At present, Foulah Town is the only confirmed finalist, with the second finalist to be announced once the ruling is complete.
Sesay assured fans that security will be tight for the grand final. Sierra Leone Police, military personnel, fire officers, and prison staff will be deployed, alongside stewards from each participating community. “The safety of players, match officials, and supporters remains a top priority,” he emphasized.
He also revealed that this year’s champions will receive NLe 110,000, while runners-up will take home NLe 60,000.
Foulah Town treasurer Mr Turay expressed pride in his team’s journey but demanded stronger security. “We are preparing greatly for the finals. We want at least 300 soldiers present. Wrong decisions from referees can lead to chaos, and fans may not control their emotions,” he warned, while also urging organizers to improve facilities, citing poor toilets and seating.
Mountain City’s secretary-general, Osman Turay, recounted the semi-final incident in detail. “Violence destroys the game and drives fans away. We must stay away from violence and put up the best attitude,” he said, calling for stronger perimeter fencing and more security in future seasons.
Despite the disruptions, the COFA Inter-Community League remains one of Sierra Leone’s most engaging grassroots competitions, drawing huge crowds and showcasing immense local talent. Yet the question lingers: can the passion of Parade Field be separated from the violence that too often overshadows it?
As the grand final approaches, all eyes are on COFA, not just to crown a champion, but to prove that community football can thrive without chaos.
