KEI KAMARA FC Cincinnati Forward #85 Performance and Impact Analysis
Kei Kamara, the veteran forward wearing number 85 for FC Cincinnati, keeps turning heads in Major League Soccer. With a career that just won’t quit, Kamara’s arrival in Cincinnati has injected fresh energy into the team’s attack.
He’s scored for 11 different MLS clubs—yeah, you read that right. That kind of experience? It’s gold for a club aiming to stay near the top of the standings.
Fans can’t wait to see how Kamara’s scoring instincts and clever movement fit into Cincinnati’s system. At 40, he’s still making a difference out there. For one of the league’s top all-time scorers, age really does seem like just a number.
Want his latest stats? Check out his profile on FC Cincinnati’s website or browse his career details on Transfermarkt.
Career Stats Table
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | TBD | TBD |
| Total MLS | 11 clubs | 300+ | 100+ |
Kamara’s journey rolls on with Cincinnati, and, let’s be honest, everyone’s watching to see what he’ll pull off next.
Contents
Player Profile and Background
Kamara stands out as one of Major League Soccer’s most productive forwards. He’s got size, strength, and a nose for goal.
From Sierra Leone to FC Cincinnati, Kamara’s story is really about grit and adaptability. He’s stayed consistent—season after season.
Basic Details
Kei Kamara, number 85, lines up as a centre-forward for FC Cincinnati. At 6’3″ (190 cm) and about 185 lbs (84 kg), he’s a real handful for defenders.
Born September 1, 1984, in Kenema, Sierra Leone, Kamara proudly represents his homeland as an international. He’s Sierra Leonean through and through.
Kamara prefers his right foot, but honestly, he can finish with either. That keeps defenders guessing.
He’s joined an exclusive club: only 13 players have scored 100+ goals in MLS, as his Wikipedia profile notes. His mix of physicality and skill has helped him stay at the top for over a decade.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Forward / Centre-Forward |
| Jersey Number | 85 |
| Height | 6’3″ (190 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Date of Birth | September 1, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Kenema, Sierra Leone |
| Nationality | Sierra Leonean |
| Footedness | Right |
Early Career and Youth Development
Kamara kicked off his soccer story in Kenema, a city known for its love of the game. Even as a kid, he stood out with his athleticism and goal-scoring instincts.
Civil unrest in Sierra Leone forced Kamara’s family to look for a new start. They landed in the United States, where Kamara’s game kept growing.
He played youth soccer in California and quickly became a force up front. His time at California State University, Dominguez Hills, put him on the national radar.
That led to his selection in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft. Representing Sierra Leone internationally, Kamara has inspired plenty of young players.
He’s shown that talent and hard work can break through just about any obstacle. From Kenema’s fields to MLS stadiums, Kamara’s journey is all about perseverance and commitment.
FC Cincinnati Career
Kamara’s stint with FC Cincinnati kicks off a new chapter for both sides. The club picked up a proven scorer and a leader. That’s big for a team with big goals.
Signing and Contract Details
FC Cincinnati signed Kamara in May 2025. They brought him in to add size and experience up front.
He inked a deal through the end of 2025. There’s also a club option for 2026.
Cincinnati slotted him into a supplemental roster spot, which made the salary cap math work. Pretty clever move, honestly.
The GM called Kamara’s signing a perfect fit. Kamara can mentor the younger guys and still make an impact right away.
With Kamara, Cincinnati added depth and a respected voice in the locker room.
2025 Season Overview
Kamara made his mark right away. Fans at TQL Stadium saw his influence as soon as he stepped on the pitch.
By June 2025, Kamara had already played in several matches and scored a crucial debut goal. That’s not bad for a 40-year-old.
Supporters felt his presence, and ticket sales on Vividseats jumped when he joined. His calendar filled up with clashes against top Eastern Conference clubs.
Kamara brought his trademark professionalism and preparation. He quickly became a regular as Cincinnati pushed for the playoffs.
Kamara 2025 Stats (as of June 2025)
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 6 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes Played | 270 |
Impact on Team Performance
Kamara gives Cincinnati a steady goal threat and invaluable experience. He holds up play, wins headers, and finds space in the box.
In his first stretch of games, he scored twice and took some pressure off the younger attackers. That’s exactly what Cincinnati needed.
The team leaned on Kamara’s leadership, especially in tight matches. He’s been through playoff battles before, and that experience helps steady the squad.
His arrival filled a gap up top when injuries or fixture congestion hit. Cincinnati’s front office sent a message by bringing him in: they want to blend veteran talent with hungry young players.
Kamara’s spot on the 2025 roster shows smart planning and real ambition from the club.
MLS Career and Achievements
Kei Kamara has been a dependable striker for more than a decade. He’s left his mark at nearly every club he’s joined.
His scoring touch and longevity have put him among the league’s best-ever goal scorers.
Clubs Represented in MLS
Kamara’s MLS resume is something else. He’s suited up for Sporting Kansas City, Columbus Crew, San Jose Earthquakes, Houston Dynamo, New England Revolution, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Colorado Rapids, Minnesota United FC, CF Montréal, Chicago Fire FC, LAFC, and now FC Cincinnati.
Not only has he played for more teams than just about anyone, but he’s also made an impact everywhere. He adapts fast and slots right into new systems.
First-game goals, clutch playoff moments, and a knack for being the wise head in the room—Kamara’s seen it all.
Being one of the few to play for 11 different MLS clubs says a lot about his talent and reputation.
Goal Scoring Records
Kamara ranks as one of the league’s top scorers. By 2025, he’d scored over 140 regular-season goals.
That puts him second all-time, just behind Chris Wondolowski and ahead of Landon Donovan. Not bad company.
He hit the 100-goal milestone after 300 games—something only a handful have managed. Kamara’s been a double-digit scorer for multiple clubs.
Here’s a quick look at his goal stats:
| Club | Goals Scored | Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| Sporting Kansas City | 38 | 113 |
| Columbus Crew | 37 | 85 |
| New England Revolution | 12 | 52 |
| Vancouver Whitecaps FC | 14 | 28 |
| Colorado Rapids | 17 | 38 |
| Other MLS Clubs | 25+ | 130+ |
| Total | 140+ | 446+ |
Teams all over MLS have wanted Kamara for his reliable scoring.
Awards and Honors
Kamara’s trophy case is pretty full. He’s been voted to the MLS Best XI and made the All-Star squad.
While he hasn’t lifted MLS Cup, Kamara helped Columbus Crew reach the 2015 final, scoring some huge goals along the way.
He’s also played in U.S. Open Cup Finals for different teams. Kamara’s picked up club MVPs and Golden Boot awards, too.
Teammates and coaches respect his leadership. He often takes younger players under his wing.
Transfer History and Notable Moves
Kamara’s MLS career reads like a travel log. He started with Columbus Crew, then moved to Kansas City, Houston, and San Jose.
He returned for big spells at Columbus and Sporting Kansas City. Later, he joined New England Revolution, Vancouver, and Colorado Rapids.
Kamara kept moving—Minnesota, Montréal, Chicago, LAFC, and now FC Cincinnati. Teams kept betting on his experience and knack for goals.
In 2025, Kamara signed with FC Cincinnati through season’s end. Even as he nears the end of his career, he keeps making a difference.
He’s earned respect all across North America.
International Experience
Kei Kamara’s left his mark on the international stage, too. He’s represented Sierra Leone with pride and consistency.
Kamara’s journey connects deeply with Sierra Leonean football, and he’s made his presence felt in major international competitions.
Sierra Leone National Team
Let’s talk about Kamara and his journey with the Sierra Leone national team—the Leone Stars. He jumped into the senior squad back in 2008, and honestly, he made his presence felt right away. Those big-game headers and clutch goals? That’s Kamara’s calling card.
You could say he’s more than just a striker for Sierra Leone. Kamara steps up as a leader, guiding the younger guys and sharing wisdom from his MLS days. He’s been a mentor, not just a goal scorer.
Kamara’s racked up 39 international caps and has worn the captain’s armband in some big moments. He’s helped guide Sierra Leone through tough FIFA World Cup qualifiers and played in key Africa Cup of Nations games. Even when his club schedule got busy, Kamara always showed up for his country.
Check out his main stats for Sierra Leone:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Caps | 39 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Debut Year | 2008 |
| Captain Appearances | Multiple |
| Notable Leadership | Yes |
Notable International Competitions
Kamara’s got some serious highlights in his international career. One of his proudest moments? Leading Sierra Leone through those dramatic Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and ending the country’s long wait for a spot in the tournament.
He’s battled through multiple FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns. The Leone Stars haven’t made the big dance yet, but Kamara’s effort in those matches—especially against some of Africa’s best—can’t be overstated.
Coaches often trusted Kamara with the big jobs: penalty kicks, set pieces, you name it. He took on those responsibilities and kept his cool, even in the most intense moments.
Teammates often talk about how much Kamara’s experience pushes them to be better. His steady play made him one of Sierra Leone’s most respected internationals. Want to dig into Kamara’s international story? Here’s his profile and achievements.
Position and Playing Style
Kamara lines up as a centre-forward for FC Cincinnati, and man, does he bring a ton of experience to the attack. He’s built a reputation as a reliable striker and a locker room leader.
Primary Role as a Forward
You’ll usually spot Kamara right up top as the centre-forward, leading Cincinnati’s line. He’s always hunting for scoring chances—making those darting runs, lurking in the box, and pouncing on loose balls.
Kamara loves to battle defenders, using his size and strength to hold up play. That gives his teammates time to join the attack and keeps the pressure on the back line.
Years in MLS taught Kamara how to read defenders and time his runs just right. That awareness makes him the go-to target when Cincinnati’s midfielders and wingers are looking to break down defenses.
| Position | Club | Jersey # | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centre-Forward | FC Cincinnati | 85 | Goal Scorer |
Strengths and Skills
Kamara’s got a few standout skills. First off, his aerial game is top-tier—at 6’3″, he’s a nightmare for defenders on crosses and set pieces.
He’s a finisher, plain and simple. Kamara scores with both feet and his head, and he’s always ready to pounce on half-chances inside the six-yard box. Pressure doesn’t seem to faze him, which is a huge asset.
In the locker room, Kamara’s leadership is huge for the younger guys. His knack for finding space and timing his runs keeps him dangerous, even as he adds more years to his career. He’s still a reliable goal scorer season after season.
Significant Matches and Milestones
Let’s get into Kamara’s run with FC Cincinnati. He’s been front and center in big cup matches, league battles, and those moments that just stick with fans. He’s really made his mark in knockout games and keeps adding to his career records.
Leagues Cup Final and U.S. Open Cup
Kamara’s Cincinnati stint includes deep pushes in the Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup. His experience showed as the team went toe-to-toe with some of the best from MLS and Liga MX. He brought energy, leadership, and a sense of calm to Cincinnati’s attack.
During the U.S. Open Cup, Kamara chipped in with key assists and smart movement. The team didn’t quite get the trophy, but Kamara’s influence raised the bar for everyone. He really pulled the strings in those win-or-go-home matches.
Key Tournament Stats
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leagues Cup | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| U.S. Open Cup | 3 | 0 | 2 |
Memorable Goals and Records
Kamara’s time with Cincinnati features some real milestone moments. He’s kept climbing up the MLS all-time goals list, scoring big ones that put him among the league’s best.
Hitting the 145-goal mark in MLS? That’s no small feat. Fans love reliving those classic Kamara goals—towering headers, clever runs, and ice-cold finishes when it matters most.
Want the latest numbers? Here’s where you can find Kamara’s career stats with FC Cincinnati.
Off the Field: Media, Community, and News
Kamara’s impact in Cincinnati goes way beyond the soccer field. Wearing number 85, he’s become a media favorite and a real community presence.
Media Presence and Highlights
Kamara’s always in the spotlight. Even at 40, his move to FC Cincinnati grabbed headlines all over MLS. Reporters and fans alike buzzed about the signing—a proven striker bringing a new spark to the team. For the latest news, check out his FOX Sports page.
You’ll find plenty of videos showing Kamara’s best moments, from his Cincinnati debut to interviews and behind-the-scenes clips. His tribute to NFL legend Chad Johnson—by taking the number 85—was a cool move that got a lot of attention. Fans and media loved it, and you can read more in this article.
| Media Coverage Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| News Articles | Player signings, interviews |
| Video Highlights | Match footage, tributes |
| Social Media | Fan interactions, updates |
Community Involvement and Leadership
Kamara’s always found ways to give back. In Cincinnati, he’s kept that same energy—mentoring young players and leading by example.
He shows up for local events, charity games, and youth clinics. Fans appreciate how approachable he is, and his off-field work helps build a real bond between the club and the city.
You’ll often spot Kamara supporting causes that matter to him, from youth programs to community service. That mix of leadership and heart makes him a trusted figure, both on and off the pitch.
European Clubs and International Stints
Kamara’s career has taken him all over—from the MLS to the heart of English football. He’s shown adaptability, skill, and a real commitment to playing at high levels.
English Premier League Experience
Kamara’s biggest European chapter came with Norwich City in the Premier League. He joined them on loan from Sporting Kansas City in 2013, and he wasted no time making an impact. Kamara scored once for Norwich and earned plenty of praise for his physical style and hard work.
After Norwich, Kamara moved to Middlesbrough in the Championship. He played 25 matches there, notching 4 goals and a few assists. That move proved he could handle the fast, tough world of English football.
Kamara’s English League Stats
| Club | Season | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norwich City | 2012-13 | 11 | 1 |
| Middlesbrough | 2013-14 | 25 | 4 |
Other International Clubs
Kamara didn’t just stick to England—he took his talents overseas, too. In 2020, he signed with HIFK in Finland’s Veikkausliiga.
That move? It threw some new challenges his way. He had to get used to a different style of play, not to mention the chillier climate.
Kamara jumped right into the action. He showed off his usual goal-scoring instincts and gave a spark to the club’s attack.
Now, Stade Saputo isn’t technically a club, but it matters in Kamara’s international experience. It’s the home stadium for CF Montréal, where Kamara also spent some time during his lengthy pro run.
By playing in both Canada and Finland, Kamara showed he could handle just about anything. He brought his professionalism and skill everywhere he went—impressive, right?
