MONROVIA — The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex in Paynesville to host Liberia’s home matches for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 qualifiers, ending months of uncertainty over where the Lone Star would play its home fixtures.
By Christopher C. Walker | [email protected]
Youth and Sports Minister Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah confirmed the decision, assuring the public that government authorities are following all CAF guidelines to complete the stadium’s final official certification process.
Presidential Backing & Allowance Increase
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. is pushing to lead Liberia back to the continental stage for the first time in over two decades. To motivate the national team, the Ministry of Youth and Sports announced that President Boakai, serving as Chief Patron of Sports, has committed to raising players’ game-day per diem from US1,000toUS2,500.
A successful campaign under President Boakai would mark Liberia’s first AFCON appearance in 24 years a feat last accomplished in 2002 under former President Charles G. Taylor, and one that eluded former President George Weah throughout his six-year presidency (2018–2024).
Minister Kruah outlined three core assurances ahead of the campaign.
“Three things we are certain of: Liberia will feature a very competitive team, President Boakai will rally the support, and Liberia will play at home,” Minister Kruah stated. “We launch our bid for AFCON Qualifiers on Saturday, September 12 at the SKD.”
Stadium Readiness and Infrastructure Upgrades
Addressing past venue challenges including a temporary CAF hosting ban imposed in May 2021 SKD Stadium Manager Lincoln R. Johnson confirmed that major technical areas are now ready following ongoing renovation work.
“The stadium’s medical room, playing pitch, and dressing rooms are ready for Liberia’s upcoming qualifiers,” Johnson confirmed, expressing full confidence in the facility ahead of CAF’s upcoming final assessment.
With home-ground advantage restored, the Lone Star will officially kick off its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign on home soil on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
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