Gambia Scorpions' strong performance in qualifying were finally rewarded on Saturday as they inflicted a shock defeat on Algeria, in the day three of the combined qualifiers for the World and African Nations Cup finals in 2010.

The Scorpions beat the Desert Warriors 1-0 at the Independence Stadium to put their challenge for a place at the 2010 finals back on track.

Belgium-based midfielder, Mustapha Jarju, scored the only goal of the game in the 18th minute, after converting a penalty.

Alain striker, Ousman Jallow, whose absence in Scorpion's first two matches was greatly felt, was brought down in the Algerian box, and crafted Mustapha Jarju made no mistake to send goalkeeper Lounes Gaoaoli in the wrong way.

The result saw the Scorpions leapfrog their opponents in the standings, and go top; but Senegal can regain the lead if they down Liberia.

Scorpions coach, Belgian Paul Put, made few changes to his Saturday's lineup and the new faces effectively gelled into the team.

Sweden-based goalkeeper, Musa Bajaha, replaced Hawk's Robert Badjie at the goal mouth, while Pa Modou Jagne, who surprised everyone with his dazzling display, replaced suspended, Pa Saikou Kujaba. Striker Ousman Jallow, who is known for his great fighting spirit in the front line, formed a familiar front line with Njogu Demba, who could not repeat his fascinating display against Senegal.

In a post match interview with Observer Sports, elated Scorpions coach, Paul Put, said: "I have to be proud of my players for what they have been doing. What I saw after only three weeks is unbelievable, so I am very, very happy."

The Scorpions will travel to Algeria for the return leg on Friday, June 20, and coach Paul Put said they would be well prepared for the  Algiers tie.