The Gambia and Senegal have secured their spots in the finals of the CAF African Schools Football Championship after dominating the WAFU A Zone tournament held in Diamniadio, Senegal.
The Gambian girls’ team retained their title after a tense 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Guinea, following a goalless draw in regular time. Goalkeeper Jarra Bojang emerged as the hero, saving two crucial penalties to ensure her team’s third consecutive qualification for the finals.
In the boys’ category, hosts Senegal defeated The Gambia 2-0 in a commanding performance. Souleymane Commissaire Faye scored both goals, with an early penalty in the 6th minute and a second strike six minutes later, securing Senegal’s place in the continental championship.
Guinea’s boys’ team clinched third place with a 4-1 penalty win over Mauritania after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Both champions, The Gambia (girls) and Senegal (boys), will represent the WAFU A Zone at the continental competition for U-15 students. They were awarded gold medals, trophies, and $100,000 for development projects. Runners-up Guinea (girls) and The Gambia (boys) received $75,000 and silver medals, while Senegal (girls) and Guinea (boys), who finished third, earned $50,000 and bronze medals.
The tournament, supported by the Motsepe Foundation, aims to inspire young African boys and girls to pursue futures in football.
Individual Awards
Girls’ Awards
Fair Play: Senegal
Best Goalkeeper: Aicha Conte (Guinea)
Top Scorer: Haiba Koulibaly (Guinea)
Best Player: Jarra Bojang (The Gambia)
Boys’ Awards
Fair Play: The Gambia
Best Goalkeeper: Assane Sarr (Senegal)
Top Scorer: Souleymane Commissaire Faye (Senegal)
Best Player: Souleymane Commissaire Faye (Senegal)
The competition continues to be a pivotal platform for nurturing young football talent across Africa.
