CAN U17: onto the semi-finals!

The Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, CAN U17, kicks into high gear this Tuesday, April 15, with two eagerly anticipated semi-finals in Morocco. Four nations are dreaming of a ticket to the grand final, and the fixtures promise excitement.

Burkina Faso vs Mali: an electrifying derby

The first clash will see Burkina Faso take on Mali at 4 PM GMT at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The Stallions, impressive in the quarter-finals with an offensive showcase against Zambia (6-1), are banking on their prodigy Ashraf Tapsoba, already with 7 goals, to make the difference.

Facing them, Mali's Eaglets had to work hard to eliminate Tunisia (1-1, 10-9 on penalties) and are counting on the creativity of Seydou Dembélé to reach their first final since 2017.

Morocco vs Côte d'Ivoire: the Cubs at home

At 7 PM GMT, the host nation Morocco will face Côte d'Ivoire at the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia. Undefeated and defensively solid, the Atlas Cubs are determined to continue their perfect run after their victory against South Africa (3-1).

However, the Elephants are not here just to make up the numbers. After eliminating the reigning champions Senegal (0-0, 5-3 on penalties), they aim to pull off a surprise and book a spot in the final.

Two intense duels to follow this Tuesday, for a place in the 2025 CAN U17 final:

• 4:00 PM GMT: Burkina Faso vs Mali
• 7:00 PM GMT: Morocco vs Côte d'Ivoire

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

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