CAN U17: four decisive fixtures this Monday, April 7

This Monday, April 7 marks the end of the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, CAN U17, with four crucial encounters. Spotlight:

Mali – Côte d’Ivoire

At the municipal stadium of Berrechid (4 PM GMT), Mali, already qualified, will aim to retain the top spot in Group D.

A draw will suffice against an Ivory Coast team almost in the quarters. The Ivorians, sitting second, must avoid a heavy defeat to secure their ticket.

Angola – Central African Republic

At the same time, in El Jadida, Angola faces a Central African Republic team already eliminated.

The Angolans, third, must win by more than six goals while hoping for an Ivorian setback to advance. A draw would also keep them third and allow them to contest the playoffs for the U17 World Cup.

The Central African Republic, on the other hand, will play their all-out game to snatch a last-minute third place, qualifying for the World Cup in this category.

Senegal – Somalia

At 7 PM GMT in El Jadida, Senegal, second in Group C, takes on an already out-of-the-running Somalia.

The Lion Cubs would be content with a draw to advance to the quarters. An unlikely defeat would force the reigning African champions to hope for a Gambian slip-up.

Gambia – Tunisia

Simultaneously in Berrechid, Tunisia, at the top, can settle for a draw.

However, only a victory would allow Gambia, assured of the playoffs, to qualify for the quarters. A high-tension clash.

Here is today's schedule at the CAN U17:

• Mali-Ivory Coast (4:00 PM GMT)
• Angola-Central African Republic (4:00 PM GMT)
• Senegal-Somalia (7:00 PM GMT)
• Gambia-Tunisia (7:00 PM GMT)

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.