Mali Set for Crucial Second Leg in Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers
Mali’s Under-20 national team will look to complete the job against Burkina Faso this weekend in the second leg of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie, following a dominant 3-0 victory in the first leg in Ouagadougou. While the first-leg result puts Mali in a commanding position, the team is taking nothing for granted ahead of the return match in Bamako.
Malian captain Issiaka Diarra emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, insisting that his side must perform at the same high level to ensure qualification for the next round. “We have to rise to the occasion and play in the same way as in the first leg if we want to reach the next round,” Diarra warned, acknowledging the threat posed by a potential Burkina Faso comeback.
Coach Fagnery Diarra also echoed his captain’s sentiments, urging his players to stay grounded. “Nothing is decided yet, because our objective is the team’s qualification for the second round,” he said. “We have already forgotten the victory in the first leg and we will do everything possible to win the return leg.”
Mali will also benefit from the return of several key players who were absent for the first leg, adding further strength to their squad as they look to secure their place in the next stage of the qualifiers. The team’s preparation will be key, as they aim to avoid any potential surprises from Burkina Faso.
