By: Kemo Kanyi
History was made in the ongoing Brikama Sports Committee (BSC) Nawettan qualifiers as two teams – Benz & BMA and Super Stars FA—secured their places in the Nawettan proper for the first time.
Both teams won their final qualifying matches, turning long-held dreams into reality by earning a spot in one of the Gambia’s most competitive and entertaining summer football zones.
In the highly anticipated ‘Satebaa’ derby, Benz & BMA edged out Ruen FA with a narrow 1-0 victory. Buba Saidy scored the decisive goal, capitalizing on a moment of opportunity to seal the win. Despite Ruen FA’s efforts to find an equalizer, Benz & BMA’s solid defensive structure and tactical discipline held firm.
The win marks a historic moment for Benz & BMA, who have finally broken through after several unsuccessful attempts in previous seasons. Ruen FA, on the other hand, will have to regroup and try again next year, having exited the qualifiers at the same stage last season.
In another emotional derby clash, two teams from Kembujeh – Super Stars FA and Black Star KM – battled for a place in the league proper. The match ended 1-1 in regulation time, leading to a dramatic penalty shootout.
Omar Bajo opened the scoring for Super Stars FA in the 37th minute, before Ebrima K. Jallow leveled for Black Star KM just before halftime.
Super Stars FA ultimately triumphed in the shootout, securing Nawettan qualification in their debut attempt—a remarkable achievement for the young academy side. Black Star KM, however, face yet another disappointment, extending their wait for Nawettan football after nearly a decade of trying.