Hosts Morocco and powerhouse Mali are set to face off in the 2025 CAF U17 African Nations Cup( AFCON) final, after a semi-final round packed with drama—featuring stunning goals, high-pressure penalty shootouts, and even red cards.
Mali were the first to book their place in Saturday’s final, following a commanding 2-0 win over Burkina Faso in Casablanca.
The deadlock was broken in the 42nd minute when Soumaila Fané unleashed a rocket from outside the box, smashing the ball into the top corner in spectacular fashion.
Burkina Faso responded with intensity in the second half, but Mali sealed the win when Mahamadou Traoré rose to meet Fané’s cross and nodded in the second goal in the 74th minute.
Morocco are hoping to win their first ever u17 AFCON. Photo Credit: Getty Images
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Tempers flared late in the game as Burkina Faso saw two players sent off—Ali Koné and Alassana Bagayogo both picking up second yellow cards, reducing the Stallions to nine men and effectively ending their hopes of a comeback.
Morocco Survive Shootout Drama Against Ivory Coast
Later that evening, hosts Morocco battled Ivory Coast in a tense, goalless semifinal that went the distance.
Despite multiple chances for both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough during regulation time, setting the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout.
READ MORE:Samuel Chukwueze breaks silence on AC Milan struggles
Moroccan goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch stole the spotlight, making two crucial saves to guide his team to a 4-3 victory in the shootout, and into the final to the delight of the home crowd.
Bronze Battle: Burkina Faso vs Ivory Coast
Burkina Faso will now face Ivory Coast in the third-place playoff, also set for Saturday. Both teams will look to end their tournament on a high note after heartbreak in the semifinals.
