Gambia reach UFOA-A U17 semi-finals after Mauritania win

The Gambia have booked their place in the UFOA-A U17 semi-finals after recording a second consecutive victory. Their qualification is now settled before the final group match, which will bring them up against Senegal with first place at stake. Senegal have also reached the last four, giving the meeting added importance beyond qualification.

The young Scorpions defeated Mauritania 3-1 at Stade Lat Dior in Thiès. Alieu Saine gave Gambia the lead in the 13th minute, finishing an attack created by Omar Marong. Mauritania responded after the interval and restored parity in the 49th minute, putting the match back in balance.

Gambia regained control late in the contest. Omar Badjie, introduced during the match, put the team back in front in the 78th minute. Muhammed Jatta then completed the scoring in the fourth minute of added time to secure the three-goal victory. The result leaves Gambia on six points from two matches, confirming their perfect start and ensuring they cannot be displaced from the qualifying places. Their last group fixture against Senegal will instead determine who advances as group winner, while both teams already prepare for the semi-final stage.