President’s Cup Semi-Final Line-Up Confirmed as Togo Set to Face Mali
The semi-final fixtures for the 2014 President’s Cup have been confirmed following the conclusion of the group stage matches on Wednesday. The international U-17 tournament, held in Togo under the joint organisation of UFOA B and CAF, forms part of the national celebrations marking Togo’s independence.
In the last four, Group B winners Nigeria will face Benin, who secured second place in Group A with a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast. Nigeria, led by coach Emmanuel Amunike, have looked dominant so far, recording back-to-back 2-0 victories over Mali in the unique two-legged group format that followed Niger’s late withdrawal.
The other semi-final will see hosts Togo take on Mali in what promises to be an emotionally charged clash at Lomé’s Municipal Stadium. Togo topped Group A after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on Wednesday, despite playing part of the second half with ten men.
Mali, who were unable to take a point from their encounters with Nigeria, now have a second chance to prove themselves as they take on a confident Togolese side buoyed by home support.
Both semi-finals are scheduled for Friday at the Lomé Municipal Stadium, with kick-off times to be announced.
The President’s Cup has so far delivered thrilling matches and standout individual performances, offering a platform for young talent across West Africa. The semi-finals are expected to provide more of the same as the competition reaches its decisive phase.
