Mali march into quarter-finals and World Cup with win over Central African Republic
Published: Friday, 04 April 2025
Mali U17 continued their impressive start to the 2025 TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over Central African Republic on Friday in Berrechid to move top of Group D.
Having beaten Angola in their opening game, Mali made it two wins from two and secured their place in the knockout stages, while Central African Republic, suffering their second consecutive defeat, are now out of contention for the semi-finals.
The victory also means that the West Africans have secured their place at the U17 World Cup to be played in Qatar from 3-27 November, which will feature 48 nations.
Mali broke the deadlock in the 21st minute after sustained pressure, when Soumaila Fané tucked in from close range following a corner.
The goal was just reward for Mali's early dominance, with Ndjicoura Bomba playing a key role in the buildup.
Central African Republic were left with a mountain to climb after they were reduced to 10 men before half-time. Defender Nelson Amadi was sent off following a VAR review for a dangerous foul in the 44th minute.
Mali capitalised quickly after the restart. Just a minute into the second half, Ndjicoura Bomba headed in Mali's second goal from Fané's cross, making it 2-0 and effectively sealing the result.
Despite some spirited efforts from the Central African Republic — including a few saves forced from the Malian goalkeeper — they struggled to make their numerical disadvantage count.
A second red card followed for Chrispin Ngombe in the 64th minute, further denting any hopes of a comeback.
Mali will now face Cote d'Ivoire in their final group game on Monday, needing only a draw to top the group. Central African Republic will seek to restore pride when they take on Angola.
Following the wins of their opening two matches in the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, which is currently taking place in Morocco, Mali have secured a place in the top two positions in their group.
All four group winners and runners-up from the continental competition are guaranteed a ticket to Qatar 2025.
The four third-place teams will enter a play-off to determine CAF's final two representatives.
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