By: Madi Senghore
The Gambia will launch its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign against Somalia on 25 September 2026 at the Independence Stadium, following confirmation of the fixture by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The match will mark the Scorpions’ long-awaited return to hosting a competitive international fixture on home soil after several years of playing qualifiers away from the Independence Stadium.
Thousands of supporters are expected to fill the stadium as Gambia seeks to begin its qualifying campaign with a positive result in front of its home fans.
The opening fixture is widely regarded as a significant milestone for Gambian football, with the return to the national stadium expected to provide both an emotional and competitive boost for the team.
Playing at home is anticipated to offer the Scorpions the advantage of familiar surroundings and strong crowd support as they aim to secure all three points against Somalia.
The encounter will also provide the technical team with an opportunity to set the tone for the remainder of the qualifying campaign, with an opening victory likely to strengthen confidence ahead of subsequent matches.
The Gambia will be seeking a disciplined and organised performance as it bids to make a winning start to its quest for a place at the 2027 AFCON finals.
About The Author
