Liberian striker Abu Razard Kamara could make his debut in European football in July when his Slovenian club, NK Rudar, plays in the first qualifying round of Europe’s second prestigious club competition, the Europa League.

NK Rudar finished fourth in the Slovenian National League with 50 points from 36 games and booked a place in the first qualifying round of the Europa league where they will meet a winner from the preliminary round. With the draw already being made, the one-time Slovenian cup champions are set to take on the winner from the preliminary round match between San Marino league champions, Societa Ploisportiva Tre Fiori and Welsh Premier League side, Bala Town Football Club.

NK Rudar will be making only their fifth appearance in the continental competition on Thursday, July 12 when they take on either team. Kamara will be making his first such appearance.

He described his expected debut as a dream come through. Speaking to The Bush Chicken via Facebook from Slovenia, Kamara said it is every player’s dream to play in such competition and he looks forward to helping his team advance in the competition.

“I’m excited for the opportunity and looking forward in making the dream a reality. Growing up as a footballer, I watched the competition and being part of it now is a special feeling I can’t explain,” Kamara said. “I can’t wait for the day to walk on the pitch and help my team go as far as possible.”

Kamara will be the third Liberian in two years to play in the Europa League qualifier when his side takes to the pitch on July 12. Midfielder Theo Weeks made his debut in the competition in 2016 with Gabala FK in the first qualifying round against Georgian side, Samtredia. Weeks helped Gabala reach the group stage of the competition with a splendid performance including a hat-trick against Samtredia.

Following Weeks’ debut in the competition was young midfield genius, Murphy Oscar Dorley, who made his debut in 2017. Dorley made his debut against Scottish Premier League giant, St. Johnstone Football Club, in the first qualifying while featuring for Lithuanian side, FK Trakai.

Kamara joined NK Rudar in February 2018 after a year in Kosovo. During his short stint in Kosovo, he played for KF Feronikeli Drenas and KF Dukagjini. His debut season with NK Rudar turned out to be a disappointing one after spending most of his time of the pitch with a muscle injury. He managed just three appearances for the club without a goal before the end of the season. However, he has since recovered and has begun training ahead of the 2018-19 season.

Featured photo courtesy of KF Feronikeli Drenas