Published: August 29, 2025
MONROVIA — Liberia’s hopes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have suffered a major setback after defender Sampson Dweh was ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Dweh, a regular in the Lone Star backline since his debut on March 21, 2021, will miss next month’s clashes against Tunisia and Malawi. Liberia faces Tunisia in Tunis on Sept. 4 before traveling to meet Malawi four days later.
The center back sustained the injury on Aug. 12 while featuring for Viktoria Plzeň in a UEFA Champions League qualifier against Rangers. Though back in light training, he and the Czech club agreed he should skip international duty to focus on full recovery ahead of upcoming European fixtures.
“This is a run I wanted to continue as long as I could, but it’s better to sit this one out and not risk another injury,” Dweh told reporters, adding that he hopes to return for Liberia’s October fixtures.
Since 2021, Dweh has earned 26 caps and scored once for the national team.
Search for a Replacement
His absence leaves a major gap in coach Thomas Kojo’s defense. Analysts suggest Kojo could turn to the domestic league, with Blackman Warriors defender Jah Nyanforh emerging as a strong option. Nyanforh has been praised for his composure, aggression, and ability to carry the ball into midfield. Kojo is expected to unveil his full squad on Friday.
Group H Standing
Liberia sits third in Group H with 10 points from six matches. Tunisia leads with 16 points after edging Liberia 1-0 in Monrovia last March, courtesy of Hazem al-Mastouri’s early strike.
Malawi, which defeated Liberia 1-0 in the opening round in 2024, awaits the Lone Star again in what could prove a decisive encounter for Liberia’s qualifying campaign.
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