Gambia win 2005 U-17s bid
Nigeria celebrate winning through to the semi-finals of the last U-17 tournament in Seychelles
Nigeria are the current African Under-17 champions
By BBC Sport Online's Lamin Cham in Banjul

Gambia has been granted the right to host the 2005 African Under-17 football championship by the Confederation of African Football, Caf.


This the greatest thing to have happened in our soccer history
Gambia sports minister Samba Faal
A letter addressed to the Gambia Football Association (GFA) stated that Gambia has been given the authority after a thorough examination of all bidding nations.

Gambia's sports minister, Samba Faal, said he was delighted at the news.

"This is the greatest thing to have happened in our soccer history," he stated.

"I think this would help boost our soccer image, expose our players to the world and even encourage tourism and foreign investment.

"I would now called on all to work hard from now so that we could use this chance to win the trophy," Faal added.

For his part, GFA secretary general Jammeh Bojang said the 2005 event should bring the much needed progress to the Gambian game.

"I am extremely delighted about the Caf decision," he said.

See also:

11 Apr 02 |  Africa
Swaziland want 2010 World Cup
10 Apr 02 |  Africa
Zambia appoint new coach
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