Liberia’s Women’s National Football Team, affectionately known as the Female Lone Star, have powered their way into the semi-finals of the 2025 WAFU Zone A Senior Women’s Championship, following a gritty and determined showing in the group stage that saw them finish second in Group A.
The Liberian side collected five points from three matches, securing one win and two draws, to trail behind group leaders Mali, who dominated the group with seven points.
The road to the knockout stage, however, was far from smooth. Liberia’s journey to Mauritania was marred by logistical challenges, including prolonged visa delays in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, which also affected other delegations such as Sierra Leone. These delays forced organizers to reschedule the tournament’s kick-off from May 18 to May 22, buying time for affected teams to arrive and settle.
But despite the fatigue and off-field frustrations, the Female Lone Star displayed composure, courage, and character on the pitch.
Their campaign kicked off with a spirited 3-1 comeback win over Guinea Bissau. After falling behind in the first half, Liberia roared back through an equalizer from Jessica Quachie, before forward Mimi Eiden bagged a brace to seal the crucial opening victory.
In their second fixture, Liberia held hosts Mauritania to a tough 1-1 draw in a game that tested the team’s discipline and resolve. The draw kept their hopes alive heading into the final group match against one of the tournament’s most formidable opponents.
Facing group favorites Mali, Liberia again demonstrated resilience. Though Mali struck first, Liberia’s Bandu Yantay netted a first-half equalizer that held the match level at 1-1. The point gained proved vital, as it secured Liberia’s qualification to the semi-finals.
Mali, meanwhile, cemented their top position with dominant wins, a 5-0 demolition of Mauritania and a commanding 4-1 victory over Guinea Bissau. Mauritania ended the group stage in third place with four points, while Guinea Bissau exited the tournament without registering a single point.
As they gear up for the semi-finals, the Female Lone Star carry with them momentum and belief. Their performance in the group stage not only earned them a spot among the final four but also reaffirmed their emergence as a serious contender in West African women’s football.
Liberia now eyes the final, hoping to make history and inspire a new generation of female footballers back home.
