Erradi Faces First Real Test as Lone Star Names 25-Man Squad for Rwanda, Mali Fixtures

Monrovia — Lonestar head coach Mohammed Erradi has unveiled a 25-man roster for Liberia’s back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and Mali, marking the Moroccan tactician’s first major competitive test since taking charge of the national team.

By Christopher C. Walker, [email protected] |

The September double-header represents a crucial juncture for Erradi, who stepped into the role with a promise to build a disciplined, competitive unit capable of picking up points both at home and  away.

While Erradi’s tenure began with a preliminary two-match friendly series against rivals Sierra Leone which saw the Lone Star suffer a narrow 1-0 defeat in Bo before storming back to secure an emphatic 3-1 victory in Monrovia the upcoming AFCON qualifiers present his first official competitive trial with qualification stakes on the line.

Liberia will travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on September 25 before returning to host Mali on September 29 at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville, with the team’s qualifying campaign hanging in the balance.

Attacking Boost with European, Asian Returns

Headlining Erradi’s selection for his formal debut in competitive action is the return of international forwards Mohammed Kamara who plays in Romania) and Sylvanus Nimely (Kokand 1912, Uzbekistan). Both players return to the national setup following extended absences due to personal reasons, handing Erradi crucial attacking depth.

They join an experienced forward line featuring Kpah Sherman (Melaka United), Peter Wilson (Oakland Roots), Edward Ledlum (ASO Chlef), Bryant Farkarlun (El Paso Loco motive), Ayouba Kosiah (Radnik Surdulica), Franklin Nyenetue (FC Dila Gori), and Prince Martor Jr from Turkish top flight.

Midfield and Defensive Core

In midfield, the Lone Star will lean on Czech-based star Divine Teah (Slavia Prague), Murphy “Oscar” Dorley (Al-Taawoun), Nohan Kenneh (Tranmere Rovers), Solomon Tweh (Al-Raed), domestic standout Kindness Cole (Watanga FC), and former Newcastle United midfielder Mo Sangare.

The defensive unit blends European and regional experience with Sampson Dweh (Viktoria Plzeň), Philip Tarnue (Minnesota United FC 2), Emmanuel Fully (Artis Brno), Jamal Arago (Al-Taawoun), Sebastien Teclar (Jamus FC), and George Wallace (KF Kora).

Between the posts, Netherlands-based Amos Wesseh (RKSV Rohda Raalte) joins domestic options Tommy Songo (LISCR FC) and Ashley Williams (Bea Mountain FC).

Full 25-Man Lone Star Squad

Goalkeepers: Tommy Songo (LISCR FC), Ashley Williams (Bea Mountain FC), Amos Wesseh (RKSV Rohda Raalte).

Defenders: Philip Tarnue (Minnesota United FC 2), Emmanuel Fully (Artis Brno), Jamal Arago (Al-Taawoun), Sampson Dweh (Viktoria Plzeň), Sebastien Teclar (Jamus FC), George Wallace (KF Kora).

Midfielders: Murphy “Oscar” Dorley (Al-Taawoun), Nohan Kenneh (Tranmere Rovers), Kindness Cole (Watanga FC), Divine Teah (Slavia Prague), Solomon Tweh (Al-Raed), Mo Sangare

Forwards: Franklin Nyenetue (FC Dila Gori), Prince Martor Jr. (), Bryant Farkarlun (El Paso Locomotive), Kpah Sherman (Melaka United), Sylvanus Nimely (Kokand 1912), Mohammed Kamara (CFR Cluj), Edward Ledlum (ASO Chlef), Ayouba Kosiah (Radnik Surdulica), Peter Wilson (Oakland Roots).

Revised Match Incentives

Erradi’s official competitive debut also comes with unprecedented financial backing from the government.

Speaking recently at a Presidential Dinner and Fundraising Gala in Monrovia, Minister of Youth and Sports Cornelia Kruah announced an upward revision of player match compensation.

Appearance fees have been raised from US$1,000 to US$2,500, with an additional US 2,500 set as a winning bonus, allowing each player to earn up to US$5,000 per victory.