Liberia: Liberia Lose 3 Out of 3 Friendlies in Turkey

Liberia could suffer a huge drop in the next FIFA ranking after losing three out of three international friendlies in Antalya, Turkey.

The Lone Star were unable to secure at least a draw from the three matches, conceding seven goals and managed to score a goal.

The friendlies were part of Liberia’s and other African countries’ preparations for the upcoming 2023 AFCON qualifiers.

Faced with several challenges ranging from travelling arrangements and visa issues, Coach Peter Butler and his backroom staff had to fill in the gap with some Turkish-based Liberian players after five of his invited players couldn’t make the trip.

Liberia suffered a 4-0 defeat in the first match against Benin on March 24, and eventually lost 1-0 against neighbours Sierra Leone on March 27 in the second encounter.

The Lone Star’s final chance to return home with at least a point was against 141st ranked Burundi, but Butler and his boys missed out.

Burundi’s Caleb Bimenyimana was the man of the moment after he scored twice in the 4th and 33rd minute to send the Swallows to the first half break with a 2-0 lead.

Nimba FC’s wonder kid Divine Teah got Liberia’s consolation when he fired home a volley from Freeport FC’s Frank Allison in the 47th minute.

Burundi were later reduced to 10 men, but held on to their defensive posture to collect all three points.

African countries usually make use of the FIFA international window to arrange with sporting agencies in the Turkish City of Antalya to hold training camps in preparation for major future tournaments. 

The friendlies that were played within the FIFA  international match calendar windows, will have an effect on Liberia’s position in the next ranking, expected March 31.