After many years of trying, hard work, and dedication, the Gambian National Football Team– finally made their way to the maiden African Cup of Nations Tournament. This win is worth dedicating to fallen heroes of Gambian Football.

On Thursday, The Gambian team, led by coach Tom Sainfiet, made history while qualifying to participate in the AFCON 2022 competition– for the time in the country’s football records.

The historic goal scored by the country’s international footballer–Assan Ceesay, enabled the team to win Angola placing them in Group D.

This victory was a moment of joy to Gambians as they shared their excitement on social media with videos and unique posts celebrating the country’s accomplishment.

Many who knew the struggle of Gambian football remembered the fallen heroes of the country’s football. These people include the former Gambian international footballer Birri Birrri and former coach Bonu Johnson.

Sharing his excitement, Gambian film marker and director–Babucarr Manka shared on his Facebook page heartfelt words saying:

“Birri Birri, Bonus Johnson, George Gomez are smiling from above.”

Gambian football’s journey has been a very rough one; for many years, these talented players fight their best to take the country to the most competitive football competition, which seemed to come longer than expected.

John Mendy, a Gambian sports journalist–wrote:

Finally, a beaming light at the end of this tunnel. A long dusty but incredible Journey it has been. The Gambia to maiden Nations cup appearance. #Historic”.

For his part Momodou Gajaga;

This has been my dream for the longest time since I started following the scorpions in 1997. As a sports journalist, I am excited because now I have the opportunity to attend my first –African cup of nations tournament in 2022–watching The Gambia live in the competition”.

The hard work never stops for the team, and football authorizes even though the country’s most extended dream in football is achieved.

Gajaga didn’t hesitate to share with the Sisters Show that;

Now that we’ve, qualify, preparations for the tournament should begin in earnest. All the team needs is motivation, playing stronger footballing nations and training camps. Scorpion coach Tom Sainfiet should continue scouting for players to strengthen the team. In partnership with the government, the Gambia football federation should ensure that the team continues to travel for international matches without hitches providing charted flights if necessary.

Assan Ceesay took to his official Facebook page, expressing gratitude and excitement to the man of the moment. He wrote:

History made #Alhamdulilah for scoring the goal that took us to #AFCON. An unforgettable moment, we did it together. Let’s enjoy the moment. Thank you, Gambian people, for believing in us.”

Strike steve Trawally also didn’t hold back his proudness for this remarkable achievement. The founder of Steve Trawally foundation wrote on his Instagram;

“Dreams do come through.”

The team and coach have received many congratulating messages, including Senegalese International Footballer Sadio Mane–, award-winning Gambian artist–Jizzle, and of course from the Gambia’s highest office–Office of The President.

The prestigious competition is African biggest football tournament–which is a big deal for every country participating.

As the team prepares for their historic participation in 2022 AFCON–, we at The Sisters Show wish them all the best of luck.