Gambian forward Musa Barrow has attributed the national team’s poor performances in recent qualifiers to teh ban on Stadium in Bakau.

Speaking after the Scorpions’ narrow 4–3 defeat to Gabon in the World Cup qualifiers, Barrow said the team’s inability to play home matches in Banjul has cost them crucial results over the years.

“If we had played our home matches here, we would have had a better chance to qualify for the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations,” told reporters.

The Independence Stadium has been banned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) since 2022 for failing to meet international standards.

Despite several renovation efforts funded by the government, CAF inspectors recently ruled that the venue still falls short of requirements to host international fixtures.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports had announced spending millions of dalasis on renovation works, including upgrades to the pitch, dressing rooms, and lighting systems.

However, fans have expressed growing frustration as the ban remains in place, forcing the Gambia to host its home matches abroad.

Barrow’s remarks echo the sentiments of many supporters who believe the lack of a functioning home stadium has hindered the team’s progress on the continental stage.

By Adama Makasuba