The stage is now set for a thrilling final between two of the tournament’s standout teams as Mali faces Morocco on Saturday, 19 April, as the two battle battle for continental glory.
Mali secured their spot in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a dominant 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Tuesday’s semi-final at Stade Larbi Zaouli.
A goal in each half saw the young Eagles progress to the championship match, where they will face hosts Morocco, who defeated Côte d’Ivoire in a penalty shoot-out later in the evening.
Soumaila Fané opened the scoring for Mali in the 42nd minute, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box into the top corner, leaving the Burkinabe goalkeeper with no chance.
The match was sealed in the 74th minute when Mahamadou Traoré rose highest to meet Fané’s pinpoint cross, heading home Mali’s second goal and putting the result beyond doubt.
Burkina Faso’s hopes of a comeback were further dashed when they were reduced to nine men, as Ali Koné and Alassana Bagayogo both received second yellow cards in the second half.
The victory marks Mali’s return to the U-17 AFCON final for the first time since 2017.
Hosts Morocco booked their place in the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON final after a tense 4-3 penalty shoot-out win over Côte d’Ivoire, following a goalless draw in regulation time.
The semi-final was a tactical battle from the outset, with both teams displaying strong defensive organization and creating several chances.
However, wasteful finishing meant neither side could find the breakthrough.
With the deadlock unbroken after 90 minutes, the match proceeded to a dramatic penalty shoot-out. Morocco held their nerve in front of a passionate home crowd, converting four of their spot-kicks to secure the win.
Ultimately, it was the young Atlas Lions who emerged victorious, setting up a highly anticipated final against Mali.
Burkina Faso and Coted’ivore will face each other in the third place final as the competition wraps up on Saturday.
