Gambian football league expert Hamadi Kebbeh has shared his analysis following the conclusion of the first round of the national league season.
League leaders GPA FC maintained their position at the top of the table after coming from behind to secure a point against TMT FC.
However, the situation looks difficult for Steve Biko FC and Samger FC, who are struggling in the standings. Kebbeh also gave special praise to Bombada FC for their performances so far this season.
Title Race Prediction
Kebbeh believes the title race will be highly competitive but expects three teams to fight for the crown.
“It’s a difficult and tough call, but I predict GPA, Fortune and Real de Banjul will be crowned champions at the end of the season. Hart are within the mix, but I believe they will struggle, considering that Nfansu Dibba is about to travel. He has been their best player and, over the last two seasons, he has been instrumental, especially in their last four games.”
Congested Fixtures and Short Break
Kebbeh expressed concerns about the demanding schedule during the first round of the season.
“Once I saw the fixtures, I wasn’t happy. It’s very congested imagine playing two games in one week. Our grounds are not in the best condition, and the climate is not favourable. It brings fatigue and has disturbed clubs; many players are now injured. It is definitely not good for the players.”
He also mentioned that the 4:30 pm kickoff time could help players, while noting that many stadiums lack basic facilities for supporters.
“Some parks have no pavilions, and as a fan you have to stand for the entire game.”
Kebbeh believes several teams needed the short break in the schedule, including Steve Biko, BST Galaxy and Real de Banjul FC.
“Real de Banjul have lost two key players and two of their strikers are currently injured. They need the break. Steve Biko’s poor run of form also shows they need time to adjust.”
However, he feels the break is still too short for proper preparation.
“The break is very short, and it will be difficult for teams to prepare well. Samger, Biko and TMT would benefit from a longer break maybe two or three weeks. The reasons are best known to the competition department.”
Coach of the First Round, Best Player and Best Match
Kebbeh named Baboucarr Coker, head coach of GPA, as his Coach of the First Round.
“From the second division back to the first division, topping the league from the onset until now ahead of strong teams like Fortune who have been consistent in recent years.”
The Best Player of the First Round, according to Kebbeh, is Nfansu Dibba.
“He struggled in the first two league games, but after that he clicked. He has been scoring and providing assists. He is the best player so far.”
For the Best Match, Kebbeh highlighted two games.
“Steve Biko vs BST Galaxy had everything except goals. But I will go with GPA vs Fortune as the best game I have watched in the first round. It had everything, and it was also the first time GPA conceded in the league.”
Biggest Surprises of the First Round
Kebbeh admitted he was surprised by the performances of some teams this season.
“BST Galaxy, TMT and Steve Biko surprised me. With the transfers they made and their preparations, I attended some of their preseason sessions and saw how ready they were.”
He pointed out that Steve Biko’s position in the table is particularly unexpected.
“Steve Biko sitting second from bottom, TMT in the relegation zone, and BST Galaxy also struggling — despite finishing fourth last season.”
He also noted that Real de Banjul surprised him but ended the first round strongly considering the challenges in their squad.
Concerns Over Refereeing
Kebbeh also raised concerns about refereeing standards in the league.
“There have been too many errors since last season, and this season as well. Now people can record and share videos of refereeing mistakes.”
He added that the way referees communicate with players and coaches needs improvement.
“One thing I don’t like is how referees sometimes talk or react to players and coaches. They are often very aggressive. If a coach or player approaches you, it is better to respond calmly instead of showing anger.
Young Talent Emerging
Despite the challenges, Kebbeh believes the league is producing promising young players.
“This season we have seen many young players in both the first and second divisions. We have talented players who are still very young, which could help build strong U17 teams and even the CHAN squad.”
Declining Goal Ratio a Concern
Kebbeh also highlighted a worrying trend — the decreasing number of goals in the league.
“Scoring goals has become a problem. There is a lack of clinical strikers in the league compared to previous years.”
He compared statistics from past seasons:
- One season: Top scorer had 20 goals, second had 16
- Following season: Top scorer had 14, second had 11
- Last season: Top scorer had 12 goals
- This season so far: Leading scorer has 7 goals
“You can clearly see the difference — from 20 to 14 to 12, and now 7. The ratio is going down.”
Special Mention: Bombada
Kebbeh reserved special praise for Bombada’s style of play.
“Bombada are one of the best teams in the league. The football they play is very attacking, and the team has been together for a long time.”
He added that they were among the highest-scoring teams last season and have maintained that form in the first round while remaining disciplined.
