Mali has reached the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations after a commanding 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the semi-final match held on Tuesday in Casablanca.
The young Eagles scored a goal in each half to earn their place in Saturday’s championship match. Mali took the lead in the 42nd minute when Soumaila Fané fired a powerful shot from outside the box into the top corner, leaving the Burkina Faso goalkeeper with no chance to save it.
Despite a spirited response from the Stallions, Mali extended their lead midway through the second half. In the 74th minute, Mahamadou Traoré met Fané’s precise cross with a header, sealing the victory for Mali.
The match at Stade Larbi Zaouli was intense and physical, with Burkina Faso putting forth a determined effort but ultimately unable to penetrate Mali’s well-organized defense.
The Baby Stallions created several opportunities, including a close-range header from Halidou Diakité that went over the bar, but they struggled to find the finishing touch in front of goal.
Burkina Faso ended the match with nine players, as both Ali Koné and Alassana Bagayogo received second yellow cards in the second half, which added to their frustration.
Mali displayed maturity and tactical discipline throughout the game, controlling critical moments and managing the match’s tempo with composure in the final stages.
With this victory, Mali will compete in the U-17 AFCON final for the first time since 2017, when they claimed the title. The West Africans are now just one match away from reclaiming continental glory.
Meanwhile, Burkina Faso will play in the third-place playoff against the loser of the second semi-final, which is also scheduled for Saturday.
