By: Kemo Kanyi
Kanifing East FC secured their place in the GFF Second Division League after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over ASM Athletic in a relegation playoff match played on Sunday at the Live Your Dreams Football Field in Basori.
The decisive clash, which doubled as a Kanifing Municipality derby, was part of the final phase of the Greater Banjul regional playoffs. Kanifing East, who finished fourth from bottom in the second-tier standings, were forced into the playoff after a difficult league campaign.
Their opponents, ASM Athletic, earned their spot in the playoff by winning the Kanifing Municipality regional third division title, setting up a high-stakes showdown between two familiar sides.
Goals from Ismaila Sowe in the first half and Henry Ben Kanu after the break sealed the win for Kanifing East, ensuring they avoid relegation to the third tier.
The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) confirmed that Kanifing East will join Sibanor United FC as the two teams securing places in the second tier through the Greater Banjul playoffs. Sibanor United edged past Ali Sowe FC with a tense 4-2 penalty shootout win on Saturday following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Meanwhile, the GFF has announced that the playoffs for provincial regional champions will kick off on Monday, 28 July 2025. The opening fixture will see Lower River Region champions AJ Soccer FC face Niani FC of the Central River Region, with the match also scheduled at the Live Your Dreams Football Field in Basori.
The outcome of these playoffs will determine the remaining clubs to join the Second Division League for the 2025/26 season.
