By: Madi Senghore
ASM Athletic and Sabi FC have secured promotion to the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) Men’s Second Division after winning their respective promotion playoff matches, earning full membership rights in the federation with immediate effect.
The victories capped successful campaigns for the two regional champions, who overcame strong opposition to book their places in the country’s second-tier football league.
Kanifing Region champions ASM Athletic defeated North Bank Region champions Essau United 4-2 in a penalty shootout after the sides were locked 2-2 at the end of regulation time in their playoff match at Basori Football Field.
The victory completed ASM Athletic’s impressive run through the promotion playoffs, with the Kanifing-based side demonstrating resilience to secure elevation to the Second Division.
In the other promotion playoff, Upper River Region champions Sabi FC defeated West Coast Region champions Jam City 3-1 to seal their place in the Second Division.
The victory marked a historic achievement for the Upper River Region club, which secured promotion to the national second tier for the first time in its history.
Sabi FC’s success came despite expectations that the club would struggle against more established opposition, highlighting the growing competitiveness of regional football across The Gambia.
The promotion of ASM Athletic and Sabi FC increases the representation of the Kanifing and Upper River regions in the GFF Men’s Second Division and reflects the federation’s efforts to strengthen football development through competitive regional leagues and promotion playoffs.
Both clubs are expected to begin preparations for the upcoming Second Division season as they seek to establish themselves in the national competition following their historic promotion.