Sweden-born Hellberg shines on debut for Liberia
Hellberg outweighs a Sierra Leonean in the 3-1 win in Monrovia
Photo: T. Kla Wesley
Seth Kanteh Hellberg, who plays for Sweden’s second division flyers IK Brage, had a memorable debut as he became the first Swedish-born player to play Liberia, the ancestral homeland of his mother. He was part of the Liberian national football team which recorded a 3-1 win at home against Sierra Leone in a World Cup qualifier on September 4, Joseph M. Vincent reports.
The 24-year-old midfielder produced excellent skills, good control and nice touches to propel the Liberian team (Lone Star), sending spectators wild at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex.
In an interview, Hellberg said he felt happy playing for his motherland, noting that it was a dream come true, and that it came the right time.
He said he love the unity among the players and is even willing to give his all in helping Liberia qualify for the World Cup.
Hellberg was impressed by the fans and people of the Liberia for the love they shown him in his debut match, which was also the first match for new coach, Englishman Peter James Butler.
Speaking at a post-match interview, the deputy Coach of Lone Star Christopher Wreh said Kanteh did a great job in his first game for Liberia, and was impressive on the ball.
Wreh said the youngster who was playing for the first time in Africa was amazing and had a good shape in the midfield.
Wreh said Hellberg’s combination with Allen Njie and Oscar Dorley in the midfield was important for the win against Sierra Leone.
