Emmanuel Flomo Earns Late Lone Star Call-Up Following Kamara, Quiah Withdrawal

MONROVIA — Liberian forward Emmanuel Flomo has received a late call-up to the Lone Star squad ahead of Liberia’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Rwanda and Mali.

By: Christopher C. Walker, [email protected]

Flomo, who plays his club football in Rwanda for Sudanese club Al Hilal, was added to the squad following a sequence of events surrounding the replacement of Rapid București forward Mohammed Kamara, who withdrew from the team after consultations with his club’s medical staff and management.

The Liberia Football Association (LFA) clarified that Kamara’s withdrawal was based on long-term health and fitness considerations, rather than a refusal to honor national-team duty.

Kamara, who underwent surgery for a fractured fibula last year, continues his recovery process.

Medical advice raised concerns regarding exposure to artificial playing surfaces during his rehabilitation.

Although Liberia’s September 25 qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali is scheduled for natural grass, concerns over training on artificial turf in Kigali formed part of the decision to withdraw.

The LFA’s clarification follows criticism from supporters who questioned the forward’s commitment.

The Football authorities have officially framed the decision as a medical precaution following direct consultation with Kamara’s club.

Quiah Initially Considered

Following Kamara’s withdrawal, United States-based forward Joseph Melto Quiah emerged as the initial choice to fill the void.

Quiah, who plays for New Mexico United in the USL Championship, has made nine appearances this season, tallying one goal and one assist.

He previously represented Liberia in an international friendly against Egypt on September 30, 2021.

Although Quiah received an invitation to replace Kamara, administrative and paperwork issues ultimately prevented his joining the squad, opening the door for another adjustment.

That development cleared the way for Flomo’s late invitation.

Flomo Earns Recall

Flomo, who features for Al Hilal, enters the national team setup following a breakthrough 2025–26 campaign in which he scored 12 league goals and earned the BK Pro League’s Best Young Player award.

His performances last season established him as one of the country’s emerging attacking prospects.

However, the current campaign has started slowly for the young forward, who is yet to start a match for his club this season and was limited to second-half substitute appearances in both of Al Hilal’s CAF Champions League preliminary-round fixtures.

The national-team call-up offers Flomo an opportunity to stake his claim at the international level while working to regain a starting role at the club level.

Flomo is expected to link up with the Liberian delegation in Kigali after traveling with Al Hilal to Libya for an international friendly against Al-Ahly Tripoli.

Flomo Reacts to Call-Up

Speaking shortly after the news of his inclusion, Flomo took to Facebook to express his pride in representing the nation, writing:

“Dear Lord, I’m grateful for everything. No matter the hour or the call, I am always ready to give my heart, sweat, and soul for my country. Another chance to prove myself to my people. One love, Mama Liberia.”

The forward’s public reaction underscores his readiness to step up for Lone Star as they finalize preparations for their crucial AFCON campaign fixtures.

Liberia Prepares for Rwanda and Mali

Lone Star will face Rwanda in Kigali on September 25 before returning to Monrovia to host Mali on September 29 in their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

The squad adjustments give head coach Mohammed Adil Erradi another opportunity to assess his attacking options ahead of the crucial Group K encounters.

Flomo’s late call-up represents a vital chance to establish himself within the senior setup and translate his domestic goalscoring form to the international stage.