Burkina Faso will take on Mali in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final at 16:00 GMT, with the match scheduled to be held at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The Stallions enter the contest brimming with confidence after a commanding 6-1 victory over Zambia in the quarter-finals.
Central to their remarkable attacking display has been Ashraf Tapsoba, the tournament’s standout striker, who has already netted seven goals and is proving to be a vital asset in Burkina Faso’s pursuit of continental glory.
Their dominant performance against Zambia has made the Burkinabe side one of the favourites for the title, with Tapsoba’s clinical finishing and attacking flair providing the spark.
The team has shown both tactical discipline and attacking intent, sending a strong message to their rivals ahead of this crucial fixture.
Mali, meanwhile, endured a much more taxing route to the semi-finals.
The Aiglonnets were held to a 1-1 draw by Tunisia in their quarter-final clash and needed a nerve-wracking penalty shootout to secure their progression.
The shootout ended 10-9 in favour of Mali, underlining the team’s resilience and mental toughness under pressure.
Midfield maestro Seydou Dembélé is expected to play a key role for Mali as they look to reach their first U17 AFCON final since 2017.
Dembélé’s composure in possession and ability to dictate the tempo of the game will be essential if the Aiglonnets are to overcome a confident Burkinabe side.
With both teams aiming for a place in the final, the semi-final is shaping up to be a gripping encounter.
Burkina Faso’s firepower up front will go head-to-head with Mali’s structured midfield and defensive organisation, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
The two West African nations have a history of producing talented young players, and this match could offer another glimpse of future stars.
As the tournament nears its climax, every minute on the pitch becomes more valuable, and both sides will be aware that small margins could determine who advances to the final.
The semi-final will be broadcast live on CAF TV and the FIFA+ platform, offering supporters across the continent and beyond the opportunity to witness the drama unfold.
Kick-off is at 4 p.m. GMT in Casablanca, where all eyes will be on whether Tapsoba can add to his remarkable goal tally and inspire Burkina Faso to the final—or if Dembélé will guide Mali back to the championship match for the first time in eight years.
Votre seconde affiche des demi-finales de #TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 est connue!
Qui se qualifiera en finale ?
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— CAF – FR (@caf_online_FR) April 11, 2025
