AFCON 2023: Tragedy averted as plane carrying players loses oxygen

The jet carrying Gambia national team members did a U-turn to Banjul shortly after takeoff, averting tragedy.

The flight was carrying the squad to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

According to Sports Brief, the jet had to be delayed due to a loss of oxygen.

On Thursday, the Gambia Football Federation issued the following statement: “The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) regrets to notify the general public that the chartered aeroplane transporting the Scorpions to the Africa Cup of Nations returned to Banjul due to mechanical problems

When the crew learned the journey was nine minutes long, they quickly demanded a return to Banjul. Upon landing, preliminary examinations revealed a loss of cabin pressure and oxygen.

A new departure time has been scheduled for the players and officials.

The Scorpions are in Group C with defending champions Senegal, five-time champion Cameroon, and Guinea.

Kanyidaily recalls that CAF has announced kick-off date for AFCON 2025 qualifiers.