ZWEDRU – The race for promotion to Liberia’s Second Division is intensifying, as four teams — SUSA FC, Golden Dream FC, Paris FC, and Wein Town FC — have advanced to the semifinals of the 2025 Liberia Football Association (LFA) National 3rd Division Playoffs, currently taking place in Zwedru.
By Christopher Walker
Only three teams from the tournament—the champion, runner-up, and third-place winner—will earn promotion to the 2025/2026 LFA Second Division, making the competition one of the most crucial stages for grassroots clubs across the country.
SUSA FC of Margibi County secured their semifinal spot after a dramatic penalty shootout against Bain United of Nimba County. The two sides played to a 2–2 draw in regular time, tying the aggregate score at 3–3.
The shootout, which extended deep into both teams’ lineups, ended 12–11 in favor of SUSA, keeping their promotion hopes alive.
Golden Dream FC of Montserrado County became the first team to reach the semifinals, defeating Kwa FC of River Gee 2–1 in the second leg to seal a 5–3 aggregate win.
Their composed performance over both legs confirmed their position among the final four and strengthened their bid for promotion.
Paris FC of Grand Gedeh County advanced to the semifinals after a 1–1 draw with Todd FC of Montserrado County, ensuring a 2–1 win on aggregate.
Playing at home in Zwedru, Paris FC capitalized on their first-leg advantage and received strong support from local fans, helping them maintain control and progress to the next round.
In the last quarterfinal fixture, Wein Town FC of Margibi County edged Phebe Athletic of Bong County in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation time.
The aggregate score remained 2–2, and the shootout concluded with Wein Town winning 12–11 to claim the final spot in the semifinals.
With three promotion slots available, the semifinal round holds significant implications. The champion, runner-up, and third-place winner—determined through a third-place playoff—will move up to the Second Division for the 2025/2026 season.
The playoff has become a vital platform for emerging clubs to gain national attention, improve their status, and compete at higher levels of Liberian football.
As the tournament enters its decisive phase, the remaining teams are fighting for more than just trophies—they are competing for future opportunities in Liberia’s football hierarchy.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
