By: Madi Senghore
The Gambia’s FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) U-15 Academy national team has departed for Azerbaijan to participate in the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival, scheduled for 22 to 30 October 2026 in Baku.
The 14-member squad left Banjul International Airport early Monday, 19 October, to represent The Gambia at the international youth football event.
The competition is expected to provide the young Gambian footballers with an opportunity to showcase their talent on the international stage while gaining valuable experience against teams from different countries.
Head Coach Michael Spencer and Assistant Coach Kebba Njie will lead the team’s technical staff, while Gambia Football Federation (GFF) Technical Director Sang John Ndong will accompany the delegation as part of the administrative team.
The Young Scorpions have been drawn in Group AD alongside Cyprus, Jordan, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Sudan.
The tournament forms part of efforts to develop emerging football talent through the FIFA Talent Development Scheme, providing young players with opportunities to compete internationally and improve their technical and tactical abilities.
The Gambia’s participation is expected to contribute to the continued development of the country’s youth football programme and expose its promising players to international competition.