The Gambia is preparing to participate in the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup Festival scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, with the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) stepping up preparations for the competition.
The GFF/FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) Academy national team has been drawn in a group alongside Cyprus, Jordan, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Sudan.
The tournament is expected to bring together 191 teams from around the world, providing young players with an opportunity to gain international experience and compete against teams from different footballing backgrounds.
Preparations for the Gambian team are being led by FIFA Talent Academy Project Manager Ebrima Nyassi and coach Michael Spencer.
The tournament is scheduled to begin on 22 October 2026 in Baku.
The participation of the Gambian U-15 team forms part of the GFF’s efforts, through the FIFA Talent Development Scheme, to identify and develop young footballers and prepare them for higher levels of the game.
The competition will also provide the Gambian players with an opportunity to test themselves against international opposition and gain experience at a global youth football event.
The GFF has called on football supporters to support the young players as they prepare to represent The Gambia at the tournament.