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Football

12th Jan 2022

Sierra Leone goalkeeper bursts into tears as he receives MOTM award

Daniel Brown

Just incredibly lovely scenes here

Sierra Leone goalkeeper Mohamed Kamara broke down in tears after he received the man of the match award for a spectacular performance against Algeria in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Kamara’s performance was full of determination and grit as he kept out Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez on a number of occasions in the Group E tie.

While the 22-year-old’s style is somewhat unorthodox, the shot-stopper made a series of impressive saves throughout the match as Sierra Leone held on for an unlikely 0-0 draw against the reigning champions.

The East End Lions goalkeeper’s performance saw him rewarded with the man of the match, but it was all a bit too much for Kamara as he collected his award after the game.

In heartwarming scenes, the young shot-stopper was visibly emotional before breaking down in tears as it became clear what it meant to him.

As he struggled to hold back the tears, a reassuring voice in the background said: “It’s ok, it’s ok, it’s alright.”

Kamara’s outstanding performance against the Greens even received recognition from Sierra Leone’s president, Julias Maada Bio, who posted a message on social media congratulating the goalkeeper.

He said: “We are very proud of you, our Leone Stars. Man of the Match, Mohamed Kamara, you and the team gave the defending champions a great run. Together, we will make our roar heard across Africa and bring the cup home!”

Having made seven saves, the 22-year-old was vital in helping Sierra Leone to secure a point in their first AFCON match since 1996, as well as preventing Algeria from scoring for the first time in 36 matches.

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