By: Madi Senghore
The Gambia’s U17 national team has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Senegal, Mauritania and Sierra Leone for the WAFU Zone A U17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The regional tournament is scheduled to take place in Dakar from 7 to 20 September 2026, with the young Scorpions seeking qualification for the next edition of the Africa U17 Cup of Nations.
The draw presents a challenging task for Coach Yahya Manneh and his squad, who will face Senegal in a group containing three teams with strong regional ambitions.
Senegal, the defending champions of the previous edition, will have the advantage of playing on home soil and are expected to be among the leading contenders for qualification.
Mauritania and Sierra Leone are also expected to provide strong opposition, making every group match important for The Gambia’s qualification hopes.
Scorpions seek AFCON return
The Gambia missed the previous edition of the continental U17 championship and will be keen to secure a return to the African stage.
Coach Manneh has been assessing young players during the ongoing national U17 screening exercise as he works to build a competitive squad for the regional qualifiers.
With the tournament approaching, the Scorpions are expected to intensify preparations ahead of their campaign in Dakar.
The team will be aiming to negotiate the difficult group successfully and secure a place at the continental championship.