By: Madi Senghore
The Gambia marked its return to the Independence Stadium with a 2-1 victory over Somalia on Friday in an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
The match, played in front of the President, government officials and a strong home crowd, was the Scorpions’ first international fixture at the Independence Stadium in five years after the venue had previously been banned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The hosts made a positive start and were awarded a penalty in the 18th minute after Salzburg midfielder Abubakarr Barry was brought down inside the Somalia penalty area.
Konyaspor forward Ebrima Colley converted the spot-kick to give The Gambia the lead and score his first international goal for the Scorpions in five years.
Somalia improved after the break and drew level in the 72nd minute when the Gambian defence failed to clear a corner, allowing Bilal Njie, a Gambian-born player representing Somalia, to capitalise and make it 1-1.
The Scorpions continued to press for a winner and regained the lead in the 83rd minute.
Substitute Sulaiman Camara of Slovan Bratislava delivered a dangerous cross into the box, which Riga FC forward Muhammed Badamosi met with a powerful header to make it 2-1.
The Gambia held on during the closing stages to secure the victory and mark its long-awaited return to home international football with three points.
About The Author
