By Wilmot Konah
MONROVIA – Liberia will require between US$5 million and US$10 million to stand a realistic chance of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to the head of the Lone Star National Team Mobilization Committee, Luther Tarpeh.
Tarpeh made the disclosure Thursday when he appeared before the House of Representatives to seek support for the national team’s qualification campaign. His remarks highlighted the severe financial difficulties confronting Liberian football and the urgent need for increased investment in the Lone Star.
In a startling revelation, Tarpeh informed lawmakers that Liberia’s national football team currently owes hotel bills in four countries where it has stayed during international assignments.
“Liberia’s national football team currently owes hotel bills in four countries. The players are suffering and, in many cases, are forced to stay in low-budget hotels across Africa,” he said.
According to Tarpeh, the financial burden facing the national team extends beyond outstanding debts and includes transportation, accommodation, training, player welfare, and other logistical requirements necessary for a successful AFCON qualification campaign.
He stressed that countries that consistently qualify for major continental tournaments invest heavily in their national teams and urged Liberian authorities and stakeholders to do the same if the country hopes to return to Africa’s premier football competition.
Tarpeh noted that improved funding would enhance player welfare, improve preparations, and provide the team with the resources needed to compete effectively against stronger opponents across the continent. The appeal received a positive response from lawmakers.
Following the presentation, the House of Representatives constituted a specialized committee tasked with mobilizing support and engaging relevant stakeholders to assist the Lone Star’s qualification efforts. The committee is expected to work with government institutions to explore funding opportunities and other forms of assistance for the national team.
Liberia has not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations in more than two decades, and many football supporters believe inadequate funding remains one of the biggest obstacles to the country’s return to the continental stage.
With the 2027 AFCON qualifiers approaching, Tarpeh emphasized that meaningful financial support will be critical if Liberia is to overcome its current challenges, settle outstanding obligations, improve conditions for players, and revive hopes of ending its long absence from Africa’s biggest football tournament.
