The spirit of traditional community football roared back to life in Gbarnga over the weekend as the 2025 ArcelorMittal Liberia District League Cup officially got underway across three counties. And in Bong County, District #1 wasted no time stamping their authority on the tournament with a commanding 4–1 win over District #2 in the opening showdown.
The kickoff event held on Saturday, November 22, marked the start of matches simultaneously played in Nimba, Grand Bassa, and Bong—counties hosting AML operations. Fans packed the David Kuyion Sports Stadium as District #1 delivered one of the most dominant performances of the tournament’s early stages.
Noah J. Kerkulah broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, igniting celebrations from the District #1 bench. Just four minutes later, Eric Suah doubled the advantage, giving his side a comfortable 2–0 lead heading into halftime.
District #1 returned for the second half even hungrier. Captain James Kollie took only three minutes to extend the lead to 3–0, before striking again in the 55th minute to complete his brace and push the scoreline to 4–0. Despite several additional chances, District #1 failed to convert further opportunities that could have turned the match into a rout.
District #2 grabbed a consolation goal in the 82nd minute after Solomon Fofana confidently converted a penalty, but it did little to change the outcome as District #1 cruised into the next stage of the knockout-format competition.
The opening ceremony featured encouraging remarks from Madam Albretha Diabur, AML Community Relationship Supervisor for Bong County, who urged players to uphold discipline and professionalism throughout the tournament. She was joined by LFA Bong County Sub-Association representative Jeremiah Suah, while AML Community Development Supervisor Edmund Saye Gbah performed the official kickoff.
Action continues on Tuesday, November 25, with back-to-back fixtures at all three host venues. In Gbarnga, District #3 meets District #4 at 2:00 PM, followed by a District #5 versus District #6 encounter at 4:00 PM.
Round One Results – AML District League Cup 2025
Grand Bassa – Doris Williams Stadium
District #1 vs District #2 – 3–0
District #3 vs District #4 – 1–1 (District #3 wins 4–3 on penalties)
Bong County – David Kuyion Stadium
District #1 vs District #2 – 4–1
Nimba County – Gompa Stadium District #8 vs District #9 – 3–1
