With the CAN 2025 qualifiers heating up, the anticipated match between Gambia and Comoros, originally set to be held in Banjul, will now take place on neutral ground. This change was confirmed by the CAF after an inspection of Bakau stadium failed to meet standards, prompting a move to ensure fairness in the competition.
The decision aligns with a previously established agreement: any team unable to host matches at home by Matchday 4 must complete their qualifiers on neutral ground. This policy affects teams like Madagascar, Gambia, and Comoros, whose stadiums have not been certified by CAF for Matchday 5.
This shift follows concerns raised by the media about possible favoritism in CAF’s initial decision to hold the match in Gambia. The final verdict appears to have been influenced by these pressures, alongside regulatory obligations that CAF has struggled to manage within their deadlines.
Gambia had until today to secure an alternative location for their game against Comoros.
