FIFA U20 World Cup: Gambia reach knockout stage after beating France

The African nation won against Honduras and France

The Gambia U20 team has taken the FIFA U20 World Cup by storm. They lead their group and have a 100% record in the first two matches. Currently, the final group stage matches are taking place, and Gambia have already confirmed their entrance into the knockout stages.

The Gambia U20 team is part of Group F. The group comprises France's U20, Honduras's U20, and South Korea's U20 teams. Gambia U20 played their opening game against Honduras U20. They won the match 2-1. In their second game, the team from Africa defeated France's U20 side by the same scoreline.

This is Gambia's second appearance in this tournament. The last time they played was in 2007 when they reached the round of 16. This time, they are heading into another knockout stage. Every group leader in the tournament this season is unbeaten. Gambia's results in their first two matches, especially against France, will give them a lot of confidence.

Also Read: One player to watch from each FIFA U-20 World Cup 2023 team

Journey so far

Gambia U20 played their opening match against Honduras U20. Adama Bojang opened the scoring for the African team in the first minute of the game. Honduras equalised in the 5th minute and made it an end-to-end match. Gambia dominated and Bojang scored his second goal in the 85th minute to take away the tie.

In their second match, Gambia were gifted an own goal in the 13th minute. They led till the 60th minute before conceding a goal in the very next minute. Mamin Sanyang came to the rescue and scored a winner in the 68th minute. These youngsters have shown passion and character in this tournament.

Key Players

Mamin Sanyang

The 20-year-old winger plays for the most reputed club among his teammates. He is a Bayern Munich II player and represented the Germany U19 team. Sanyang switched nations and is now playing for the Gambia U20 side. He scored a winner against France U20 and will look to score such crucial goals in the knockout stages.

Adama Bojang

He is Gambia's highest goal scorer in this year's competition. Bojang scored a brace in the opening fixture. The forward plays in Gambia for Steve Biko FC.

Gambia U20 will now face South Korea U20 in their final game. A win or a draw will guarantee them a top spot. This could had them an easy tie in the knockout stages. The journey is big and they need to stay focused. These youngsters will be looking to write their names in the history books.