BO CITY— Mohammed Adil Erradi’s reign as Liberia head coach began in defeat Saturday, as the Lone Star fell 1-0 to Sierra Leone in the first of two international friendlies at the Southern Arena in Bo.
Abdul Kabia’s second-half strike settled the contest, handing Sierra Leone victory and giving interim boss John Edward Keister the perfect farewell before stepping aside.
Erradi rolled out a 5-3-2 setup, pairing veteran Kpah Sherman with Ayouba Kosiah up front. But Liberia lacked cutting edge, struggling to carve out clear chances and rarely troubling the Sierra Leone backline before the break.
If there was a bright spot, it came between the posts. Amos Wesseh, earning just his second cap, produced three sharp saves in the opening 45 minutes before making way for Ashley Williams at halftime. The Netherlands-based keeper looked assured throughout, staking an early claim for the No. 1 jersey ahead of AFCON qualifying.
For long spells, the Lone Star lacked urgency. Fans online voiced frustration at the slow tempo and blunt attack. The defeat leaves Erradi chasing a quick response in Tuesday’s return leg at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville. Kickoff: 6:30 p.m.
The Moroccan tactician, who penned a three-year deal, has one mandate: end Liberia’s 25-year AFCON exile. His first assignment doesn’t get easier. Liberia landed in a rugged Group K for 2027 qualifying — Mali, Cape Verde, and Rwanda.
Mali remain a continental heavyweight and tournament regular. Cape Verde have grown into one of Africa’s most disciplined units and are still in the hunt for the 2026 World Cup. Rwanda offer a personal subplot. Erradi dominated there with APR FC, lifting three league titles and going 50 matches unbeaten. That inside knowledge could be crucial when the sides clash.
Qualifying runs across three FIFA windows from September 2026 to March 2027, with six matchdays to decide who reaches the finals.
Erradi’s priority is secure a first win, inject belief, and build momentum before the games that matter. Translating his club success to the international stage will define his early tenure, and shape Liberia’s hopes of returning to Africa’s biggest stage for the first time since 2002
