By Nenneh Fofanah
Port Loko, 18th February 2026- The Football Association Challenge Cup (FA Cup) organised by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has officially kicked off at the Port Loko Town Field with a thrilling opening clash that set the tone for the tournament. Local side Sugar Sharge FC delighted home fans with a commanding 3–0 victory over Young Boys FC from Lungi, securing their place in the next round.
The match began with intensity, and it was Mohamed Sesay who broke the deadlock, giving Sugar Sharge the early advantage. Yumkella Kamara doubled the lead with a well-taken strike, before Osman A. Kallon sealed the win with a third goal, capping off a dominant display. Despite their spirited efforts, Young Boys FC struggled to recover from the early setback, ending their FA Cup campaign at the first hurdle.
Sugar Sharge’s Assistant Coach, Mohamed Alie Bangura, expressed delight at the victory, thanking the FA for opening the competition to lower division teams. “This win serves as motivation,” he said, urging fans to continue their support as the team pushes forward.
On the other side, Ibrahim Karim Kabia, CEO of Young Boys FC, admitted disappointment but praised his players’ effort. He vowed the team would learn from the experience and focus on their Division Two campaign.
The opening fixture drew several high-ranking SLFA officials, including Vice President I Alie Badara Tawarallie, Vice President II Prince Saquee, Secretary General Mohamed Benson Bawoh, Deputy General Secretary Ismael Saidu Kanu, and North West Regional Chairman Abdul Osman Turay, who also chairs the Organizing Committee. Their presence underscored the importance of the competition in promoting football across the country.
With such an electrifying start, the SLFA Cup promises to deliver more excitement, drama, and opportunities for emerging teams to shine on the national stage.
