In a historic and sensational display, the Gambian under-20 team sent shockwaves through the U20 World Cup as they defeated France 2-1 on the second day of the group stage in Argentina on Thursday.
The Gambian U-20 team qualified for the round of 16 at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina after defeating their French counterparts on Thursday.
The Young Scorpions showcased their determination and skill, outplaying the French team in all departments.
This momentous triumph not only propels Gambia into the round of 16 but also cements their status as a rising force in youth football.
Gambia seized their first real opportunity by capitalizing on a mistake by French goalkeeper Yvan Lienard. It was Gambian midfielder Mohammed Jobe who pounced on Lienard’s poor clearance, swiftly passing the ball to his teammate Adama Bodjang inside the box. Bodjang’s shot deflected off French defender Tanguy Zoukrou and found its way into the net (13′). This early breakthrough allowed Gambia to go into the halftime break with a well-deserved lead at Estadio Mendoza.
Returning for the second half, Abdoulai Bojang’s young prodigies refused to sit back and defend their advantage. Their enterprising nature persisted, with Jobe causing havoc once again. In the 56th minute, Jobe was brought down in the French penalty area after intercepting a poorly cleared ball by the defense, earning Gambia a penalty.
However, French goalkeeper denied Gambia’s captain Alagie Saine the chance to extend their lead, redeeming himself on this occasion. The missed penalty proved to be a regretful moment for Gambia, as France equalized four minutes later through a strike from Wilson Odobert.
However, in the 65th minute when Mamin Sanyang, in a superb display of skill, maneuvered past the French defense before unleashing a powerful shot that beat Liénard.
Making their return to the U20 World Cup for the first time since 2007, Gambia has announced its resurgence with two wins in two matches. They previously defeated Honduras by the same scoreline.
The Gambian will face South Korea in the round of 16.
