The national under-17 football team, Sierra Stars were on Saturday held to a 2-2 draw by the Cadet Elephants of Ivory Coast in the qualifying rounds of the junior African Cup of Nations.

Striker Alhaji Kamara put the hosts ahead two minutes from kick off. A very robust Ivorian defence helped the visitors secure an equaliser.

The Ivorians continued their offensive through the first half and a goal by Salif Coulebaley in the 36^th minute put the visitors ahead.

The contest became keen after the recess as the Sierra Stars were desperate to translate coach Lamin Bangura’s inspirational talk into reality. Alhaji Kamara scored again for Sierra Leone three minutes into extra time.

Ivory Coast had Kouassi Jean Evarald sent off by the Cameroonian referee.

The attendance at the National Stadium was very poor. Some of the few spectators who attended described the match as a clash of two equals.
Ivory Coast return home with a favorable result as they prepare to host Sierra Leone on November 20 at the Houphouët-Boigny stadium in Abidjan. The winners proceed to Rwanda for the junior African Cup of Nations tournament in 2011.