If you asked Ebou Adams for a list of his finest achievements, you’d expect that appearing for his country in their first major international tournament on Wednesday would be right at the top of that list.
Gambia would go on to claim a 1-0 win against Mauritania – a game which Adams would start in and go on to play the full 90 minutes.
We spoke to Forest Green Rovers head coach Rob Edwards and skipper Jamille Matt who both gave their thoughts on Adams’ achievements.
“It was fantastic,” explained Edwards. “We’re really proud of him and really pleased for him and the team.”
“It’s been a really good start for them and it should give them confidence for the upcoming games. It was a really proud moment, watching one of our lads perform in a major tournament.”
Edwards admitted that he spoke to the midfielder after the win, revealing that Adams wanted the opinion of his head coach: “I text him afterwards and he asked me how I thought he did. I told him he did great.”
Jamille Matt was another who heaped praise on Adams’ achievements, providing an insight into the pride within the squad towards their teammate.
“It was a really proud moment to see him play for Gambia and for them to get the win. I thought he did really well in the game, we’re all really proud of Ebou within the squad.”
“It’s massive, the boys are all buzzing for Ebou – we all sent him a message before the game.”
Matt also revealed that Adams was returning the favour and keeping an eye on Rovers’ results, sending the players a message before Tuesday’s win against Colchester United.
Rovers will be hopeful that Adams can return to Nailsworth reaping the benefits of his exploits in Cameroon. “If it goes well – which I’m sure it will, he’ll be full of confidence when he comes back,” concluded head coach Edwards.
Up next for Gambia and Ebou Adams is a clash against Mali on Sunday, as the Scorpions look to extend their stay into the knockout stages of the competition.
