The Acting Executive Director of the National Sports Council (NSC), Mr. Mahmud Lamin Jawla, has commended the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) for ensuring the Gambia U-20 national football team’s participation in the upcoming West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone A tournament. The tournament is set to take place in Monrovia, Liberia.
Speaking at a farewell ceremony held on Saturday evening at Football Hotel in Old Yundum, Mr. Jawla acknowledged the continuous efforts of the GFF in maintaining the team’s presence in international competitions. He remarked, “Since we started engaging in the U-20 tournament, Gambia has rarely missed an edition, and if we have, it’s been no more than once.”
Mr. Jawla also expressed gratitude to the coaching staff for their dedication, stating, “The coaches have worked tirelessly to ensure the task entrusted to them is completed. To the players, we always emphasize that you are part of a select group from a pool of thousands of footballers. By being here, you represent the very best at your level, and the entire nation places its hopes on you as we hand over the national flag.”
He further urged the team to recognize the responsibility they carry, noting that “the whole country’s hope is on you now. You have been trained well, the coaches have done their jobs, and now it’s your responsibility to perform. The readiness on your faces is a sign that you are prepared to bring back the glory that Gambia is accustomed to in this tournament.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by sports development in the country, Mr. Jawla highlighted the importance of commitment and enthusiasm. “Yes, we have limited resources, but the dedication of the players, coaches, and staff compensates for what we lack in finances,” he said.
Mr. Jawla, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Youth and Sports, assured the team of the ministry’s support. “You are not only going to Liberia to play football; you will be there as ambassadors of The Gambia. Your conduct and interaction with others should reflect the culture and traditions of our nation. We are known for our peace, discipline, and obedience, and these values are as important as the game itself. We are not just participating; we are going there to win the trophy.”
The Gambia U-20 team is set to depart Banjul for Monrovia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. They will play an international friendly match against Liberia on September 10, before opening their tournament campaign against Mauritania on September 17.