Mali began their 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 victory over Angola on Tuesday at the Berrechid Municipal Stadium in Morocco.
The Aiglonnets, semi-finalists in the previous edition, took an early lead before Angola equalized, but a stunning late goal secured all three points for the West African side.
Early dominance and Angolan response
Mali wasted no time making an impact, opening the scoring in the 13th minute through Ndjicoura Raymond Bomba, who capitalized on a well-placed assist from Seydou Dembélé.
The young forward, playing for local club CSB, showcased excellent finishing to put his team ahead.
Despite Mali’s early control, Angola found a way back into the match just before halftime.
Jayden Puna thought he had his goal ruled out for offside, but after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, and his strike stood, leveling the match.
Manelson provided the assist, ensuring that the two teams entered the break at 1-1.
Mali seals the win with a moment of brilliance
The second half saw Mali pushing for a winner, though they were briefly forced to adjust their plans when Mohamed Doumbia picked up an injury and was substituted for Lamine Sidiki Keita in the 68th minute.
The decisive moment arrived in the 74th minute.
Off the bench for just nine minutes, Soungalo Coulibaly of Yeelen Olympique delivered a brilliant goal from a corner kick, restoring Mali’s lead at 2-1 and securing a hard-fought victory.
Group standings and next fixtures
With this result, Mali takes the early lead in Group D, pending the outcome of the Ivory Coast vs. Central African Republic match later in the evening.
The Aiglonnets will now turn their attention to their second group-stage match against the Central African Republic on Friday, with a chance to secure an early qualification to the quarter-finals.
For Angola, the defeat leaves them at the bottom of the table, meaning their next game against Ivory Coast will be crucial in keeping their tournament hopes alive.
Mali’s line-up against Angola (CAN U17 2025)
