Gambia relived their 5-1 defeat to Senegal in the group stage of the WAFU-A zone qualifier of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Mauritania 2021 to win the tournament and the single ticket for the final of the zone to cut.
“I’m sure it’s a surprise to a lot of people. Few people believe in our ability to win this trophy except the staff, the players and our families,” Gambia coach Mattar Mboge explained.
Gambia responded at the Lat-Dior Stadium in Thies on Sunday night to beat host Senegal by penalty kicks after a 2-2 draw in regular and extra time.
Habibou Mendy broke the deadlock in the third minute and tapped Kajally Drammeh’s cross from close range.
Three minutes before half-time, Senegal’s header Dion Lopy equalized for the hosts.
Gambia came back stronger in the second half and took the lead again in the 56th minute thanks to Kajally Drammeh.
It did not take long for Senegal to equalize again through Libasse Gueye after a good work from Samba Diallo.
The extended time had no clear chances for either side, despite Gambia playing the last 20 minutes with 10 men after Lamin Jawara was sent off in the 100th minute.
Senegal missed its last shot to see Gambia win the title and book their ticket to Mauritania 2021.