In a stunning performance on April 15, 2025, Mali secured their spot in the final of the CAN U17 2025 by defeating Burkina Faso 2-0 at the Larbi Zaouli stadium in Casablanca. After a disappointing finish in the third-place playoff two years ago, the young Aiglons demonstrated their dominance throughout the match, taking control early against a surprisingly cautious Burkina Faso team.
The first half saw Mali's Soumaila Fané break the deadlock in the 42nd minute with a powerful strike from 20 meters, capping off a brilliant solo run. This goal was a turning point, as it put Burkina Faso on the back foot, forcing them to rethink their strategy. Despite being unbeaten and solid up until that point, the Étalons struggled to find their rhythm and create significant chances.
As the second half unfolded, Mali continued to press forward, and their efforts were rewarded in the 74th minute when Mahamadou Traoré scored with a well-placed header off a corner kick. This goal further solidified Mali's control of the match and left Burkina Faso reeling.
The situation worsened for Burkina Faso when Ali Koné was sent off in the 77th minute, reducing them to ten men. With their hopes of a comeback dashed, the Burkinabè could not find a way to respond, and Mali comfortably held onto their lead until the final whistle.
"These are intelligent boys. They have the ball, yes, but more importantly, they understand quickly. They have integrated our philosophy over the years. We won't ask them to change everything just because it's a semi-final. We will stay true to what we know how to do: play," said Mali's coach Adama Diefla, reflecting on his team's performance.
Soumaila Fané, who was named Man of the Match, expressed his joy after the victory, stating, "We are very happy; I salute all our supporters." The win marks Mali's return to the final, a feat they last achieved in 2017. With previous championships in 2015 and 2017, the Aiglons have consistently been a formidable presence in the tournament, having reached the final four on seven occasions out of nine participations.
Burkina Faso, meanwhile, will now shift their focus to the bronze medal match, hoping to salvage some pride after their semi-final defeat. The team had shown impressive form leading up to this match, including a remarkable 6-1 victory against Zambia in the quarter-finals. However, they could not replicate that success against a determined Mali side.
As Mali prepares for the final, they await the outcome of the other semi-final between Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire. The anticipation builds as fans are eager to see if Mali can reclaim the title they last held in 2017. With their strong performance in the semi-final, the young Aiglons are poised to make a significant impact in the final, aiming to add another trophy to their cabinet.
In summary, Mali's victory over Burkina Faso not only secures their place in the final but also showcases their development as a footballing nation at the youth level. The Aiglons have a rich history in the CAN U17 tournament, and they will look to add to that legacy in the upcoming final, hoping to emerge victorious once again.
