The Gambia wrote a new page in its history thanks to the draw obtained against Congo-Brazzaville this Sunday, September 10 (2-2) at the end of a crazy scenario. The Scorpions win their ticket for CAN 2023 and deprive the Red Devils of the competition.
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The Gambia has only participated once in the CAN, in 2021. Thanks to this draw (2-2) against Congo-Brazzaville this Sunday, September 10, the Gambians will write a new page in the history of the sport of their country during the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast. Despite match preparation ending in the horror of the earthquake that struck Morocco, she drew on her resources to reverse a situation that seemed inextricable.
The first half was a feat for the largely dominant Red Devils at the Marrakech stadium. They had the only chances of the game before the break and were logically rewarded by a fortunate goal from Gaius Makouta (30th), who scratched a slightly improbable ball into the area. Then, they were well helped by the referee of the game, who saw a Gambian hand on a cross which crossed the area, while the ball had clearly hit the back of the defender. Silvere Ganvoula was quick to transform and make the break (45th+1).
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A stunning second period
The second half was much less productive on the Congolese side, much less timid on the Gambian side. Tom Saintfiet’s men turned the tide. After long minutes of pushing, the reduction of the gap arrived in the 81st on a long cross, well taken by Yankuba Minteh, after Pavelh Ndzila made a hole on his aerial exit. It was finally Mohamed Badamosi, in added time (90th + 1), who gave the victory to his team.
The Gambia therefore finished in second place in Group G, synonymous with qualification, with 10 points and three ahead of the Red Devils, who collapsed one by one on the pitch at the final whistle.