Gambia has confirmed it has organised friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Bahrain next week.

The Scorpions will meet the Saudis in Riyadh on 8 January before playing Bahrain two days in Manama.

The match is an important test for the Asians ahead of their participation in the Gulf Cup which starts in the United Arab Emirates later this month.

Gambia coach Antoine Hey will use the opportunity to prepare for the resumption of the Nations Cup qualifiers as they face Guinea in March.

Saudi Arabia's last friendly against a strong African side was in November 2005 when they were beaten 3-1 by Ghana.