By Staff Writer
The Gambia’s under-17 national team were crowned WAFU Zone A champions on Sunday after defeating hosts Senegal 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Vanou Gomez delivering two crucial saves in a tense final in Dakar.
The match ended goalless after regulation time, sending the West African rivals to penalties. The Gambia converted all five of their spot kicks, while Gomez saved Senegal’s decisive attempt to secure the regional title.
Gomez had already emerged as the hero of the match before the shootout. Deep into stoppage time, Senegal were awarded a penalty that could have decided the final. Souleymane Commissaire Faye stepped up for the hosts, but Gomez denied him, preserving the 0-0 scoreline and keeping The Gambia in contention.
The Gambian goalkeeper delivered again in the shootout, stopping another Senegalese penalty as his teammates remained perfect from the spot to seal the championship.
The victory denied Senegal a third consecutive WAFU Zone A U-17 title. The hosts entered the final as two-time defending regional champions and the reigning African champions at the under-17 level.
Sunday’s final was the second meeting between the neighboring countries during the tournament. Their Group A encounter on Sept. 13 also ended 0-0, with Senegal finishing atop the group on goal difference and The Gambia taking second place.
The Gambia went on to defeat Liberia 2-1 in the semifinals, securing a place in the final as well as qualification for the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
After twice being held scoreless by Senegal during the tournament, The Gambia ultimately found the breakthrough from the penalty spot. With five successful kicks and two pivotal saves from Gomez, the young Scorpions ended their campaign as champions of WAFU Zone A.
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