Mali Edges Out Morocco 1-0 in U17 World Cup Knockout Match

The young protégés of Saïd Chiba, galvanized by the example of their elders during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, started the match with a clear game plan: to score quickly to take the lead. In front, the Malian team, revived by the memory of their elimination in the semi-finals of the last Africa Cup of Nations, was particularly enterprising from the first minutes.

The first half saw a tight tactical confrontation, with Malian domination. The efforts of the Moroccans, led by striker Mohamed Hamony, were thwarted by the Malian goalkeeper. Despite several attempts on both sides, the first half ended in a draw, keeping the suspense intact for the second half.

Upon returning from the locker room, the match scenario remained similar. Mali, dominating the game, sought to pierce the Moroccan defense, well in place but under pressure. The Moroccans, gradually regaining ground, tried to unbalance the Malian defense without success. For its part, Mali, opting for counterattacks, was waiting for the right moment to strike.

The turning point of the match came in the 81st minute, when Ibrahim Diara scored the only goal of the match, propelling Mali forward. The Moroccans, pushed to their last entrenchments, tried to react, but in vain, the match ending 1-0 in favor of Mali. This result eliminates the Moroccan selection from the competition, while Mali prepares for a tough confrontation against France in the semi-finals.