The Gambia’s U20 marches to the World Cup round of 16 for the first time in sixteen years, after defeating France 2-1 in the second round of Group F. The win means the Gambia currently sits on top of the group with six points.
The young scorpions took the lead just 13 minutes into play courtesy of an own goal by Zoukrou. The Gambia would have doubled their lead in the 57th minute from the penalty spot, but Captain Alagie Saine’s right-footed shot was saved by the French shot-stopper. France equalized 4 minutes later with a header.
In the 68th minute, the young scorpions took the lead again. Mamin Sanyang, the Bayern Munich sensation, got the ball from Haruna Njie and ran down the right flank before sending a powerful right-footed shot from the right side of the box into the bottom left corner. That goal was enough to get the young scorpions into the knock-out phase.
In his post-match reaction, coach Abdoulie Bojang said this show that The Gambia is no longer an underdog; “Looking at youth football in “The Gambia, Gambia has been doing very well and we need not be underrated.”
He said the most important thing he tells his players is to be better in the whole 90 minutes and they would come on top.
Wonderkid and goal poacher, Adama Bojang said although it was a very tough and challenging match but amazing that they won.
He’s not worried that he was substituted. “It’s good. It’s a game, so everyone has his own time. It a decision of the coach so we take it {accept it} and move on.” He said.
The Gambia’s final group match is against South Korea on Sunday, May 28th.
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