In a night of dazzling football, grit, and golden history, the Sierra Queens — Sierra Leone’s Senior Women’s National Team — etched their names into African football folklore, defeating defending champions Senegal 1-0 in the final of the 2025 WAFU A Women’s Championship at the Olympic Stadium in Nouakchott.
Captain Courageous, Goalkeeping Greatness
With the weight of a nation on her shoulders, team captain Salamatu Kamara stood over the spot in the 68th minute. A hush fell over the stadium. One strike, one chance, and Kamara made no mistake — calmly burying the penalty to seal a famous win against a Senegalese side many had tipped to retain their crown.
The goal proved decisive, but the match’s heartbeat pulsed in goal — Hannah Juana, the unbreakable wall between the posts, delivered yet another masterclass in shot-stopping. Making acrobatic saves and commanding her box with confidence, Juana was named Best Player of the Tournament, a rare and extraordinary accolade for a goalkeeper on the African stage. The award caps off a tournament where she earned four Woman of the Match honors and inspired a generation back home.
A Triumph of Spirit — But a Cry for Support
The win marks Sierra Leone’s first-ever WAFU A Women’s Championship title, a feat made even more incredible by the adversity the Queens faced off the pitch.
In the immediate aftermath of their triumph, jubilation gave way to emotion as several players — voices trembling with pride and frustration — used their moment on the podium to call out the Government of Sierra Leone for its continued neglect of women’s football.
“We gave our all for this country, but we felt abandoned,” said one senior player. “We received no adequate support, no proper funding, and yet we are now champions of West Africa. Imagine what we could do if we were actually backed.”
The team’s coaching staff echoed the sentiment, citing logistical hurdles, minimal resources, and lack of recognition throughout their journey. Despite those challenges, the Sierra Queens stood tall — united, resilient, and triumphant.
A Legacy Beyond the Trophy
This win is more than a trophy — it is a statement. It is a reminder that Sierra Leonean women, when given even half a chance, can lead the nation to glory. It is a story of pride, power, and possibility — but also a clarion call to authorities back home.
If the Queens can conquer West Africa under neglect, what heights could they reach with real investment, infrastructure, and belief?
Last night, they made history. Now, they demand change.
By Kevin French
