U17 World Cup: 5 things to know about Ismail El Aoud, Mali's tormentor

18.11.25 FT World Cup U17

Morocco U17

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Mali U17

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Morocco can thank their young sensation Ismail El Aoud, one of the main architects behind their qualification for the quarter-finals of the U17 World Cup.

Bagging a brace, the young winger was decisive in the 3-0 victory over Mali in the round of 16.

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Here are 5 things you need to know about Ismail El Aoud, Mali's tormentor

• Born in Spain to Moroccan parents, he is eligible to represent both nations on the international stage.
• He joined Valencia during the last summer transfer window, after spells with UD Amistad de Zaragoza and SD Huesca.
• He plays for Valencia's U18 side and is expected to move up to the U19s in the near future.

• He has contributed to 5 goals at this 20th edition of the U17 World Cup (4 goals and 1 assist).
• With Morocco's U17 team, he has played 22 matches, scoring 9 goals and providing 4 assists.

As a reminder, the Lion Cubs will face Brazil in the quarter-finals, after the South Americans knocked out France on penalties (4-3) following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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Morocco U17

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