The youth women’s national teams of Lone Star, in less than a week, have gotten amazing results at both the under-17 and under-20 levels at two separate international competitions.
On Sunday, May 19, 2024, the under-17 squad, headed by coach D’Georges Monibah, booked a space in the next round of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) Under-17 Women World Cup qualifiers. The girls’ 2-0 victory at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports complex in Paynesville qualified them over Senegal, who won the first leg 3-1 at home, to set up a meeting with Nigerian in the upcoming round four of the competition.
The following Tuesday, the Under-20 strolled victoriously over their neighbors from Guinea with a 2-0 win to open their participation in the 2024 West African Football Union (WAFU) Under-20 Women’s competition in Senegal.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the atmosphere in Senegal that hosted the match between the Liberian girls and their counterparts from Guinea was electrifying, with both teams showing remarkable skill and determination throughout the competition.
MYS noted that, with the show of determination from the two national sides, it was a thing of national pride as the Lone Star got a win to secure their first three points of the tournament, terming it as a convincing start.
From the first whistle, it was clear that the Lone Star were ready to dominate. They played with a cohesive strategy, marked by swift passes and seamless coordination.
Guinea, known for their aggressive style, found themselves on the back foot as the Liberian girls pressed forward with relentless energy. The first half was a display of tactical brilliance from the Lone Star, who controlled the midfield and kept the pressure on Guinea’s defense.
The second half saw Guinea intensify efforts, but Liberia’s tactical discipline and quick counter-attacks kept them at bay. Erica Parson and Patience Kawolo comfortably hit the back of the net, sending it past the outstretched hands of the Guinean goalkeeper. The score was 2-0, and the Liberian fans could sense victory.
The Lone Star managed the game expertly for the remaining minutes, maintaining possession and frustrating Guinea’s attempts to claw back into the match.
As the final whistle blew, the Liberian bench erupted in joy, the players on the field embracing one another in celebration. It was a historic win, not just a testament to their skill and hard work, but also a symbol of the bright future of women’s football in Liberia.
The 2-0 victory over Guinea in the WAFU Under-20 Girls’ competition in Senegal was more than just a win. It was a moment of pride for the nation, a display of what can be achieved.
Liberia will now need a win in their second game to seal their qualification for the next round of the competition. They will continue their journey on Thursday, May 23, against Sierra Leone, ending the group stage with a clash against Mauritania.
