U17 AFCON: Mali knocks out Tunisia and flies to the semis!

Mali secured their spot in the semi-finals of the U17 AFCON this Friday in El Jadida, overcoming Tunisia after a thrilling penalty shootout (1-1, 10-9 pens).

Despite a lively start from the Tunisians, the Eaglets dominated the game and opened the scoring in the 42nd minute thanks to their prodigy Seydou Dembélé, well served by Ndjicoura Bomba with a long cross. The attacking midfielder finished with a clever lob at the far post. Video:

Tunisia responded in the second half, with Anisse Saidi equalizing with a header from a Tayechi cross in the 79th minute.

The decision came down to penalties

In the final minutes, the Carthage Eagles came close to the knockout punch, but the Malian defense held firm.

The match was decided in a penalty shootout after an intense and balanced duel. Tunisian goalkeeper Slim Bouaskar's miss sealed the match's fate and handed victory to the young Malians (10-9 pens).

Mali will face Burkina Faso in a derby semi-final, vying for a place in the final of this emotionally charged U17 AFCON.

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

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