Young Scorpions continue training at the NTTC as preparations intensify ahead of the African Youth Championship (AYC) that is set to get underway in Mauritania in February 2021. As part of the training, Matarr M’Boge’s charges organized a test match with the team split into two, which also saw six players from the U-17 team invited to take part in the match.
The National U-20 Team played 12 test matches with domestic Gambian league sides ahead of their WAFU title winning championship in Senegal but couldn’t organize such matches since the resumption of the league season, thus the rationale behind the latest move. The match ended in a 1-1 stalemate with Momodou Bojang converting from the penalty spot after Ba Lamin Sowe was brought down in the area before Fakebba Jammeh ensured parity following an assist from Ebou Camara.
“I can confirm that we have an extremely successful test game in terms of the playing philosophy that we wanted to see from the players; the tactical discipline, and we also had individual standouts, showing that they are ready to be part of the AYC tournament,” he told the GFF, adding that he knew it was going to be a very competitive match and the players would have to all fight and proof themselves in their respective positions.
The WAFU Zone A champions are at the final phase of their preparations ahead of the AYC, Mauritania 2021, which gets underway in few weeks. “The players are doing everything to play for their clubs and the nation. We just need to do everything we can to support and motivate them. Motivation is very important especially at this level; the players need that especially after securing a huge and difficult championship in Senegal. But as a coach and staff, we counsel them and keep them focused and patient, that their rewards will surely come especially heading to a huge tournament in Mauritania where all eyes will be on them,” he added.
The gaffer concluded by extending gratitude to the U-17 staff and the invited players. He also expressed gratitude to the Gambia Football Federation for their tremendous support.
The team will be back in training on Monday, 25th January, 2021 at the NTTC at 4pm, the same date they will be expected to know their group opponents in the tournament as the draw takes place in the host country.
