The Gambia's national football team, the Scorpions, will play their 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Kenya and Côte d’Ivoire in Abidjan due to the Independence Stadium not being approved before March 17. The decision to host the home match in Abidjan was made to reduce travel and logistical costs. This comes as a disappointment for Gambians who were hoping to see their national team play at home after a five-year wait.