By: Madi Senghore
Gambian international and Scorpions captain Omar Colley helped Al-Diriyah secure promotion to the Saudi Pro League following a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Al Ula in the Saudi Division One play-off final.
Al-Diriyah displayed resilience and determination throughout the match, overcoming difficult circumstances to complete a memorable comeback despite playing with 10 men for part of the encounter.
Colley played a central role in the club’s successful campaign, captaining the side for most of the season and remaining one of the key figures in defence.
The experienced Gambian defender started 30 of the club’s 31 matches during the season, contributing three goals and one assist while helping the team record 10 clean sheets.
In the promotion final, Colley delivered another commanding display in defence and was named Man of the Match for his performance.
His match statistics included 25 defensive contributions, 16 clearances, an 86 percent pass accuracy rate, five duels won, four interceptions, four recoveries and three blocked shots.
The Scorpions captain also registered 80 touches during the game as he guided Al-Diriyah back to the top tier of Saudi Arabian football.
Colley’s leadership and consistency throughout the season have once again underlined his importance both for his club and the Gambian national team.
