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English AFCON 2023: The Gambia wither earthquake to qualify in Marrakesh
AFCON 2023: The Gambia wither earthquake to qualify in Marrakesh
On Sunday, the Gambia secured their place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 2-2 draw against Congo Brazzaville in Marrakesh.
The match went ahead despite the devastating earthquake that hit the city, killing over 2,000 people.
The Gambia’s head coach Tom Saintfiet told media that most of his players did not want to play the game because of fear. Saintfiet and his squad slept outdoors next to the swimming pool of their hotel as they were concerned about remaining indoors after they “a plane had crashed into the hotel.”
Despite the nightmare, the Scorpions showed mental strength after they fought back from two goals down with just over ten minutes remaining to book their place at January’s finals in Ivory Coast.
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An early goal from Gaius Makouta and a penalty converted by Silvere Ganvoula gave Congo a 2-0 lead, before Newcastle United player Yankuba Minteh scored in the 79th minute to give life to the comeback.
On the stroke of full-time, Muhammed Badamosi hit a last-gasp equaliser to ensure The Gambia finished behind group winners Mali in second, qualifying for the Afcon for the second time in their history.
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