As Congo and Ivory Coast share spoils

Yesterday’s results (Umuganda stadium)

Group B

Congo 2-2 Ivory Coast
Mali    0-1 Gambia

Saturday’s fixtures

Gambia vs Ivory Coast (Kigali Regional stadium)

Congo   vs Mali            (Umuganda stadium)

RUBAVU - Defending champions Gambia boosted their chances of progressing into the last four of the on-going 9th Caf U-17 championship after a slim 1-0 victory over Mali at Umuganda stadium in Rubavu.

After struggling to come to terms with Sunday’s roasting hot conditions which resulted into a shocking 3-0 defeat against Group B under-dogs Congo Brazzaville, the two-time African champions marched into yesterday’s game praying for cooler weather conditions and got their wish as the game was played amidst light downpour.

After a balanced opening 15 minutes, Gambia took control of proceedings and it was not surprising when the Scorpions finally broke the deadlock on the 36th minute.
Left winger Sarr Yusupha Dawa scored the goal after pouncing onto a Jallow Buba corner.

After the break, Mali improved their passing and created numerous chances but could not convert them much to the delight of Gambia’s agitated coach Lamin Sambou.

After the game, Sambou said, "We practiced set pieces during training yesterday (Tuesday) because we knew the Malians are stronger physically and I’m glad it paid off.”
"We didn’t play to our best but I’m glad the players kept it together throughout the game. They showed good mental strength.”

"The weather was also perfect and we hope it stays that way.”

Meanwhile, Ivory Coast fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-all draw against Congo Brazzaville.
Congo’s goals were scored by Sitou Bhinief and Epako Stevy while Bedi Guy Stephane came from the bench to score what could prove to be a very precious brace for the West Africans.

With one game to play for each side, Congo and Ivory Coast are joint-top with 4 points, Gambia are third with three points while Mali have zero points.

Ends