The Gambia have been crowned WAFU Zone A U-17 champions after defeating Senegal 5–4 on post match penalties in a dramatic Senegambia derby final at the Leopold Sédar Senghor International Stadium in Dakar.

The final finished goalless after a tense and closely contested 90 minutes, with both sides struggling to find the breakthrough.

The biggest moment of the match came deep into added time when Senegal were awarded a contentious penalty. Vanou Gomez produced a huge save, denying Souleymane Commissaire Faye and keeping The Gambia’s hopes of lifting the trophy alive.

The match subsequently went to a penalty shootout, where Vanou Gomez once again became the hero.

The young goalkeeper saved Senegal’s first penalty, giving the Scorplings an early advantage in the shootout.

The Gambia kept their composure from the spot and eventually prevailed 5–4, completing a memorable tournament campaign.

The Scorplings finish the competition unbeaten and leave Dakar as WAFU A U-17 champions, adding the regional title to their qualification for the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

For Vanou Gomez, it was a remarkable night after initially entering the tournament as a backup option. His performances in the knockout stages, capped by two crucial penalty saves in the final, played a decisive role in The Gambia’s historic triumph.

By Ebrima KB Sonko