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Gambia U-17 Woes in FIFA U-17 World Cup Continue

Oct 29, 2009, 2:03 PM | Article By: Lamin Drammeh

The Gambia National U-17 team's poor start to the FIFA U-17 world Cup currently underway in Nigeria continued with yet another disappointing 2-1 defeat in the hands of The Netherlands last evening.

The Gambian side that is facing a daunting task of qualification to the next round of the FIFA's third biggest tournament pulled a goal back, courtesy of striker and team captain Ebrima Bojang’s brilliant finished from a penalty spot when left back Lamin Sarjo Samateh who had an outstanding game was brought down by a Netherlands defender.

But before then it was the Dutch side that opened the scoring as early as in the 18th minute through striker Castaignos as a result of lack of concentration from the Gambian defence.

The Seemingly inexperience Gambian side led by Tarik Siagy who have been heavily criticized for lack of composure and collectivity had their hope of recovering from a goal down dealt with a massive blow when Tom Boere stun them with a classic header after yet some poor defensive display.

The two time African champions were punished for failing to capitalize on their numerous scoring opportunities, which fell to Ebrima Bojang, Lamin Sarjo Samateh and Midfielder Alieu Darboe who plays his club football with French side, Lemans.

The defeat means the Gambia had a very slim chance to progress to the next stage of the tournament.

Next for the baby scorpions is a do-or-die-encounter when they meet Colombia next Saturday.