By Famara Fofana January 13, 2022
The Scorpions of the Gambia have clinched a historic win in what was the country’s first ever game in the Africa Cup of Nations.
The solo goal of the night came courtesy of an Abdoulie Jallow spectacular effort in the 1oth minute of the game, sending supporters back home and abroad into raptures.
Coach Saintifiet’s charges appeared to have taken their feet of the gas after the goal, allowing Mauritanians to enjoy the lion’s share of the possession for much part of the second half. The Scorpions did however come close on several occasions to add to Jallow’s goal, with man of the match Musa Barrow and Ebrima Colley at the heart of most of their attacking moves.
Before the game itself, the timelines of social media users in the Gambia were a washed with colourful images of the country’s flag and replica jerseys of the players as a show of support and tribute to the senior national team. But what was to come after the one-nil win was even more profound as people from different walks of life paid tribute to a team that brought joy to an already divided country.
Writing on his Barrow PORG Facebook page, President Adama Barrow enthused: “Good start for the boys. Keep up the momentum, I am rooting for #TeamGambia all the way!”
Also reacting to the victory was Opposition leader Ousianou Darboe, who wrote: “Congratulations to the Scorpions on your win in your maiden appearance at AFCON. We are all proud of you. We are sure you will keep the Gambian flag high.”
From his base in Canada, online commentator Basidia Drammeh posted: “Gambia has made history by winning its first fever Afcon match against Mauritania.”
As widespread celebrations continue in the coming days, the Scorpions and their gaffer will shift attention to Sunday’s second Group F tie against Mali at 1pm. Wednesdayy´s result in Limbe, Cameroon means the Gambia occupies top spot in the group along with Mali after the West Africans earlier beat North African side Tunisa in a game that ended in controversy.
