Mali Stun Germany to Reach U20 World Cup Semi-Finals
Mali have reached the semi-finals of the FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Germany in Christchurch. The match ended 1-1 after regular time, with the West African side holding their nerve to win 5-3 on penalties.
Julian Brandt had opened the scoring for Germany in the 33rd minute, but Mali showed resilience and character to equalise in the 58th minute. The turning point came just before the hour mark, when Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diarra saved a penalty that could have put Germany 2-0 ahead.
The match remained level until the final whistle, and in the ensuing shootout, Mali were perfect from the spot. Two German players, including Brandt and Niklas Stark, failed to convert their penalties, sending the Aiglons into the last four of the tournament.
Mali head coach Fanyeri Diarra was full of praise for his players after the memorable victory.
“We said we would come to Christchurch to play a great game. Germany are a formidable team at this level and we knew we weren’t favourites, but we fought until the end,” said Diarra.
“Before the tournament, I didn’t think the team was ready, but we gradually gained confidence. Our good results gave us a big morale boost. In tournaments like this, there are always surprises—and we became one of them. Now we’re ready for any opponent.”
German coach Frank Wormuth was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Mali’s determination.
“That’s why I love football—it keeps you on edge until the last second. We leave this competition with our heads held high. I’m proud of how we played throughout,” he said.
“In the 55th minute, we had the chance to seal the game with a penalty, but we missed it. It’s very disappointing, but we didn’t lose to a stronger team—we lost to a moment of misfortune. Congratulations to Mali.”
Mali will face Serbia in the semi-finals, after the European side eliminated the United States in their own dramatic quarter-final. With two African nations—Mali and Senegal—reaching the final four, the continent is making a strong showing in this year’s competition.
