The Gambia  and hosts Algeria protected their pride to reach the final of the 8th Edition of African Under 17 Championship currently underway in Algiers.

The Baby Scorpions, who were touted as potential title contenders prior to start of the two-week event, reached the final unbeaten in four matches, and Algeria too can look back on only one defeat, which came in the hands of the Gambians in their ultimate group match, which was just a mere formality after both sides had qualified for the semis. In a tournament where many goals have been registered and good football played all round, The Gambia and the first-time finalists Algeria go into tomorrow’s final on the back of a good track record, though the Baby Scorpions are the only unblemished side in the age-category tournament, which has kept the North African city alive.

The Gambia kicked off the campaign with a 1-0 win over Guinea, while Algeria east past Cameroon [the biggest casualties in the tournament] with a similar score. Both sides went ahead to win their second group match and made sure of their place in the semi-final, and by doing so, reach the FIFA Under 17 World Cup finals to be staged in Nigeria in October. Despite their fiery start to the champions however, many observers did not expect the two sides to meet again in the final.  But as the event progressed, the two sides showed their full potential and pedigree, with The Gambia hitting Malawi 4-0, while Algeria laboured a 1-0 win over favourites Burkina Faso to set up an enticing final.

In all respect the Burkinabes reached the semis on merit. Unbeaten in three group matches, Burkina Faso were outstanding and enjoyed their every game before bowing out with dignity and honour. Algeria will enter their first final not expecting too much. As their coach Iprir Othmane predicted earlier, they are hosting the championship as underdogs and anything beyond the semi finals was going to be a bonus.

But could this be a guaranty that they will not fight their heart out for the coveted trophy? The Gambia, champions in 2005, face their most difficult game in tomorrow’s final as Algeria will be up for a revenge. A guarantied home support will be an added advantage for the Algerians who might also receive some preferential treatment from the referee.

The Baby Scorpions are arguably the favourites, but they must know that only sheer determination could guide them to an history victory tomorrow.