MONROVIA – New Liberia national team head coach Mohammed Erradi remains upbeat about the future of the Lone Star, despite opening his tenure with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Sierra Leone in the first of two international friendly matches between the neighboring West African nations.
By Christopher C. Walker christopherc.walker@frontpageafricaonline.com | 0777898224
The Moroccan tactician, overseeing his first match in charge of Liberia, praised his players for their discipline and commitment. He stated that the encounter provided valuable lessons as he begins the process of rebuilding the national team.
Speaking during a post-match press conference, Erradi said he was encouraged by his players’ performance despite the loss, adding that he believes Liberia is moving in the right direction.
“We had to choose these conditions to test our players in a high-intensity game like this,” Erradi said. “I am proud of my players and what they did on the field, and we are very optimistic for the future.”
The Lone Star entered the match under a new tactical setup, deploying a 3-5-2 formation that saw Liberia look more organized and compact defensively. While the team struggled to consistently link midfield play with its attacking options, Erradi expressed satisfaction with the overall structure and work ethic displayed by his squad.
The Liberian coach also credited Sierra Leone for providing a stern test.
“Sierra Leone is a very strong team, and playing against opponents like this is good for our growth,” he noted.
Despite the result, Erradi argued that Liberia was unfortunate not to leave with a positive outcome, pointing to what he described as questionable officiating decisions during the match.
“We were very organized on the pitch, but I want to be honest with you if there was VAR today, we would have won the game,” he said. “Two penalties were not awarded, and there were some mistakes, but this is football.”
The first half ended scoreless, with Liberia surviving several dangerous moments thanks to an impressive display from goalkeeper Amose Wesseh.
Wesseh featured for the opening 45 minutes and produced a number of key saves to keep the hosts at bay.
Sierra Leone dominated possession for much of the contest but struggled to break through Liberia’s disciplined defensive block until midway through the second half.
The breakthrough finally came in the 66th minute when a cross from the right flank found its target inside the 18-yard box, allowing the Sierra Leonean forward to power home a finish beyond second-half goalkeeper Ashley Williams.
The lone goal proved decisive as the hosts held on for the victory.
Erradi, however, refused to be discouraged by the result, citing the limited time he has had to work with the squad since taking over the mantle of authority.
The coach also highlighted the logistical challenges facing Liberia ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture in Monrovia, noting that his players will endure a grueling road journey before preparing for the second leg.
“The two games are very difficult. We came to Sierra Leone and now have to travel back to Monrovia,” he said. “Sierra Leone has an advantage because they only have to make the trip one time.”
“Going into the second leg will be difficult because we have to travel for more than five hours by road and then prepare for the match. But we will put up a good fight.”
Despite those challenges, Erradi said the experience has been worthwhile because it allowed him to assess his players under demanding circumstances.
“For us, we are very happy to play under these conditions because we wanted to test our players in the same environment, and we are very satisfied,” he added.
Liberia will now turn its attention to Tuesday’s return leg in Monrovia, which will serve as Erradi’s first home game as head coach.
The match offers the Moroccan tactician another opportunity to evaluate his squad while pursuing his first victory with the Lone Star.
While the result in Sierra Leone may not have gone Liberia’s way, Erradi believes the performance provided enough evidence that brighter days lie ahead for the national team.
“The future is bright,” he concluded. “We are building something, and the players are responding positively. What I saw today gives me confidence for what lies ahead.”
