By Samuel Daramy and Anne Brima
East End Lions were crowned champions of the 2026 Orange FA Cup after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Mighty Blackpool, sealed by a last-minute goal in Saturday’s final at the Southern Arena in Bo.
The match appeared headed for extra time before Sulaiman S. Kargbo struck in the 90th minute to secure the title for the Freetown-based club.
The win marks another milestone in East End Lions’ history, adding to their record of domestic success and earning them qualification for continental competition under the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Tournament sponsors Orange Sierra Leone said the competition reflects its long-term commitment to football development in the country.
“Football remains a powerful tool for national unity and youth empowerment,” said Abdramane Kone, the company’s Strategy, Transformation and Marketing Director, after the final.
He said the firm’s partnership with the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has helped strengthen the football ecosystem by creating opportunities for players and supporting the commercial growth of the game.
SLFA President Babadi Kamara praised the company’s continued investment, describing it as critical to the success of the country’s premier knockout competition.
“The FA Cup provides a national platform for clubs across all regions and plays a key role in talent identification and development,” Kamara said.
East End Lions Chairman Anthony Navo Jr. said tactical adjustments made at halftime proved decisive after a difficult first half.
“We adopted a more aggressive pressing approach in the second half, which helped us gain control and ultimately score,” he said.
Navo added that the victory would serve as motivation as the club prepares for future continental assignments.
East End Lions reached the final after overcoming Diamond Stars, Star Sport Academy and FC Kallon.
The Orange FA Cup has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most prominent football competitions, serving as a platform for talent discovery, fan engagement and community participation nationwide.
