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.”
Mohamed Kamara of #TeamSierraLeone broke down in tears after picking up the MOTM award in his first ever AFCON game.
As a result, Sierra Leone players will get $4500 each. $3000 is appearance fee while $1500 is for holding Algeria @NuhuAdams_ #AFCON2021
pic.twitter.com/QvPLGdSrbY— Eric Njiru (@EricNjiiru) January 12, 2022
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.
Related links:
- Burkina Faso star Steeve Yago apologises for horror tackle after just 38 seconds of AFCON
- Ian Wright: AFCON coverage is tinged with racism
- Sebastien Haller hits back at ‘disrespect’ shown to AFCON
