Liberia Still Eyes World Cup

The Perspective

July 16, 2001

Liberia has once again shown its competitive streak when it defeated the "Leone Stars" of Sierra Leone by 1 - 0 on Saturday, July 14,2001, in Freetown. Liberia's defeat of Sierra Leone makes her a leading contender once again in Group B with Nigeria, Sudan and Ghana.

Putting aside all the brouhaha leading up to the match, which almost destroyed Liberia's chances, George "Oppong" Weah - Liberia soccer star and world footballer - showed his patriotic flair and spectacular soccer prowess by scoring Liberia's winning goal in the 75th minute of the game. Liberia's victory means the pressure is back on Nigeria who was leading the pack in Group B prior to the match between Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Liberia's qualification for the 2002 World Cup will depend on the outcome of the match between its main rival Nigeria who is scheduled to play Ghana in Lagos, Nigeria, on July 29, 2001. Nigeria will have to defeat Ghana to become the unrivaled leader for Group B. However, if there is a draw, Liberia becomes the indisputable leader and clenches the World Cup qualifier.