Mali secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Tunisia in a thrilling 10-9 penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time on Friday evening at Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi in El Jadida.
The match was highly competitive, with both teams pushing themselves to the limit. Ultimately, it was Mali who maintained their composure during the shootout, clinching a spot in the last four of this prestigious tournament.
Seydou Dembélé put Mali ahead in the 42nd minute, finishing off a well-executed move with a precise strike into the top corner.
Mali dominated significant portions of the first half, applying high pressure and creating multiple chances through Dembélé and Soumaila Fané.
Tunisia came out stronger after the break and were rewarded for their persistence in the 79th minute when Anisse Saidi struck a powerful low shot from distance to level the score.
With the match tied at 1-1 at the end of regular time, it went straight to a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
The shootout became a marathon, with both teams successfully converting their pressure-filled penalties in an extraordinary display of composure.
After 19 successful attempts, the decisive moment arrived when Tunisia’s Slim Bouaskar had his penalty saved by Mali’s goalkeeper. Cheick Diarra then coolly slotted home his shot, sending Mali into the semi-finals and igniting jubilant celebrations on the field.
Mali’s advancement marks another achievement in their strong U-17 AFCON history, showcasing their depth of talent at the youth level.
They will now face Burkina Faso in the semi-finals, aiming to capture their third U-17 title, following victories in 2015 and 2017.
Despite a valiant effort, Tunisia exits the tournament with their heads held high after challenging one of Africa’s strongest youth squads.
