The goalkeeper of the Gambia’s national women’s football team on the Mediterranean in her bid to start a new life in Europe, her former coach told AFP Wednesday.
Fatim Jawara, believed to have been just 19, was among those on board a boat that ran into trouble in the Mediterranean last month while crossing from Libya to Europe.
Jawara had made her debut for the national team a year ago in a friendly against a team from Glasgow, Scotland.
“Her death is untimely, but we will remember her for her great performances on the pitch,” said Chorro Mbenga, who was the assistant coach of the national under-17 side where Jawara made her breakthrough and knew her well.
Jawara is believed to have left the Gambia in September to cross the Sahara and head for Libya, where most African migrants begin the sea crossing to Europe.
Gambia Football Federation President Lamin Kabba Bajo told AFP, “We are grieving at the moment as this is a great loss to the national soccer team and the nation.
“She will be remembered for saving a penalty kick in a friendly encounter involving the national soccer team and the Glasgow Girls from Scotland.”
Blame it on African leaders Cc @MBuhari .