The joyous players were speaking shortly after eliminating Guinea Conakry thanks to a1-0 win in their round of 16 game played on Monday.
The jubilant players vowed to keep fighting in the Afcon tournament until the end.
Pa Modou Jagne, captain for the Scorpions team who plays for Swiss side FC Dietikon said: “We are not here as tourists, rather to compete. We will always perform whenever we step on the pitch. We will always deliver and fight for our country, which is why we are here.”
He continued: “I feel so grateful to represent my country at this highest stage. I also want to thank the people who paved the way for us, the likes of Biri Biri coming down to our generation.”
He also expressed delight to be part of the team, noting that it is an amazing feeling to captain The Gambian team to its first ever Afcon tournament.
Omar Colley, Scorpions vice-captain who plays for Italian side Sampdoria said: “It is an unbelievable feeling and I do not know how to describe it. What I can say is that we will fight for The Gambia and the colours of the country until the day God decides that we will go out. All we need is the prayers and support of Gambians.”
He also added that it is a great honour to represent The Gambia, more so to go to the Afcon tournament and qualify to the quarterfinals.
Musa Barrow, who plays for Italian side Bologna said: “We play as a team and also defend as a team. We do not have a star in this team. We are all together as one Gambia. All hearts come together in the field.”
He continued: “We always try as a team to give everything on the pitch and at the end of the day Allah gives us victory. I am very happy and proud to be a Gambian.”
Modou Barrow who plays for Korean side Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors also expressed happiness for making it through to the quarterfinals.
“I chose to play for The Gambia because I want to be part of the people who will qualify the country to the Afcon. We will continue to fight until the end.”
