Banjul , The Gambia

A 21-man squad have been chosen ahead of the first leg encounter between the two sides, slated for 29^th March 2008 in Banjul.

Speaking to Pointsports the assistant coach, Lamin Sarr, expressed optimism that the team would come out with good results as the players are, according to him, fully aware of the meaning of football. He said that currently there is high competition among players in the team, which he described as a good sign.

He disclosed that the team has held test matches, including one with First Division side Samger, which ended 2-1 in favour of the squad. Gamtel will be the next team to meet the side this morning at the Independence stadium in Bakau.

The Scorpions started training on the 17^th March 2008, under the guidance of the Egyptian coach, Tarik, who is being assisted by Lamin Sarr, a Gambian coach.

Organized by CAF, the Cup of Nations tournament is meant for the exposure of locally based players. It is expected to kick off next year in Ivory Coast.

The Scorpions will be hoping to make their first appearance in theAfrican tournament at senior level.

The Gambia has a great chance of qualifying for next year’s tournament after their excellent performance in the 19^th edition of the Zone II tournament held in Guinea Bissau last year.

The Young Scorpions put up an impressive performance in Bissau with a national team comprised of only home-based players. Though the youngest team in the tournament, the team put up great performance in Bissau.