Preparations have begun with regional trials across the country’s five regions, organised by the SLFA Technical Department to identify talent for the squad. Selected players have now assembled for training ahead of the competition.
The tournament will run from September 7 to 20, 2026. The top teams will advance to the U17 AFCON finals. The draw places the Sierra Stars in a tough West African group: Senegal are the 2023 U17 AFCON champions, while Gambia and Mauritania are regular contenders in the WAFU-A zone.
The SLFA says the goal is to build a competitive squad that can secure qualification to the finals.