The Gambia U-17 team lost to Mali despite delivering a stunning performance in the WAFU A Zone championship semi-final. 

The Baby Scorpions, who fought fiercely against their West African rivals, were beaten 3-2. 

Alagie Baba Leigh scored Gambia’s equaliser in the 32nd minute of play after trailing the Malian side. Leigh put the Baby Scorpions ahead in the 49th minute of play.

However, Malian talisman Bakary Simpara scored a hat-trick to secure a vital win

for the Young Eagles of Mali. 

The Gambia U-17 team will face Guinea Bissau in the Bronze Medal playoff on Monday at 3 PM, as they aim to build on their recent success and secure a place on the podium.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba