AFCON 2021: Gambia coach, Saintfiet eyeing a bigger achievement for the Gambia team
Under Tom Saintfiet, the Scorpions have reached the quarterfinals in their first appearance at the biennial continental showpiece.
Gambia coach, Tom Saintfiet speaking ahead of Gambia quarterfinal fixture against the Indomitable Lions says his ambition for the Gambia national football team is beyond AFCON 2021. He is building the team to command respect in Africa football.
Reaching the quarterfinal is just the beginning, they desire to qualify for AFCON 2023, 2025 also qualify for the 2026 world cup.
“I want to build this team to get respect in Africa and this is the best objective because you can have a good tournament once and never qualify later, which isn’t good,” Saintfiet told the media.
“We are here to reach our limits, to build the team of the future, because I want The Gambia, not only in these quarter-finals but to be in 2023, 2025 [AFCON], and at the World Cup in 2026 when nine African countries will be able to participate.”
Gambia reached the quarterfinal in their AFCON debut season after defeating Tunisia and Mauritania in the group phase, and sending Guinea out of the tournament with a 1-0 win in the round of 16.
If Gambia progress to the semifinal, it will be the best thing that has ever happen to the 150th ranked team in the world. However, the Belgian tactician prioritize their long term achievement than a short term success, as his focus is on developing the team for consistent appearance at AFCON also secure a spot in the 2026 world cup.
“But now that we are here, we want to stay for a long time. What happens Saturday won’t change a lot about our feelings but the team, the players and the staff we have one goal and we will see what is possible.” The Belgian football manager added.
