The Gambian national football team, known as the Scorpions, has successfully arrived in Yamoussoukro on Thursday. The completion of their delegation signals a pivotal moment as Coach Tom Saintfiet can now meticulously plan the team’s training sessions in the lead-up to the prestigious tournament.
Gambia, among the nations qualifying for AFCON 2023, initiated their preparatory activities in Saudi Arabia on December 31, 2023.
Following their return to the homeland last Monday, the Scorpions faced a temporary setback as their scheduled training session at the Independence Stadium in Bakau on Tuesday was postponed due to players demanding unpaid bonuses.
Swift resolution of this financial matter paved the way for the team’s journey to Ivory Coast on January 10.
However, a technical glitch forced the Gambian team to return to Banjul briefly.
Subsequently, negotiations and proactive measures were undertaken, culminating in the dispatch of another aircraft to facilitate the team’s travel
Overcoming these initial challenges, Tom Saintfiet and his players departed Banjul on Thursday evening, arriving in Yamoussoukro to partake in AFCON 2023.
The Gambia’s coach, Tom Saintfiet, is set to lead the team’s first training session in Yamoussoukro on Friday morning, marking a return to normalcy within the team after resolving the logistical issues.
Drawn into Group C alongside formidable opponents Senegal, Guinea, and Cameroon, the Scorpions are gearing up for their tournament debut on January 15 against the Lions of Teranga.
The arrival of the Gambian delegation in Yamoussoukro sets the stage for an exciting and competitive campaign in AFCON 2023.
