The Gambia national team have narrowly escaped a potentially disastrous situation after departing Banjul on a chartered aeroplane to Ivory Coast in preparation for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to reports, the plane was forced to make a return nine minutes after takeoff, because cabin oxygen supply had failed.
Meanwhile, a statement released by the Gambian Football Federation stated that “Preliminary investigations indicated that there was loss of cabin pressure and oxygen. However, the technical team of the operating company of the flight, Air Cote d’Ivoire is further assessing the situation to establish what caused the lack of oxygen and cabin pressure.
“In this regard, the team, including the players and staff are now on their way to base at the Ocean Bay Hotel as they await further instructions. It is important to note that every member of the delegation is safe and in sound health,” part of the statement read.
The Federation, however, apologized for the unforeseen event, stating that they are exploring solutions for the team to travel to Ivory Coast.
“The public will be kept informed about any development on the matter. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may have caused as we seek to find a quick solution for the team to travel to Ivory Coast as soon as possible.”
This year’s AFCON is the second appearance for the Scorpions after their impressive run in the 2021 edition in Cameroon.
