Mali secured a place in the semi-finals of the WAFU A U17 qualifying tournament after a 2-2 draw against Gambia in their final group stage match.
The encounter, played at 4pm GMT, began with both teams displaying high intensity but failing to find the net before the break.
Despite several opportunities, neither side managed to gain the upper hand during the first half, which ended goalless.
Gambia broke the deadlock in the 50th minute through Lamin Bojang, who finished clinically after sustained pressure from his side.
The goal boosted Gambia’s confidence as they pushed for a second, but Mali maintained their composure and continued to search for an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off in the 70th minute when Mali earned a penalty following a foul on their number nine.
The Malian number 24 stepped up and converted the spot-kick with precision, bringing the score to 1-1.
The momentum then shifted in Mali’s favour. In the 82nd minute, Aboubacar Maïga put the young Eagles ahead after finding space inside the box and slotting home calmly.
The goal appeared to secure Mali’s path to victory and a safe passage into the next round.
However, Gambia refused to back down. Just three minutes later, Alagie Baba produced a stunning free kick in the 85th minute to level the score at 2-2.
His strike left the Malian goalkeeper helpless and reignited the contest in the final moments.
Despite Gambia’s late push for a winner, Mali held firm until the final whistle to claim the crucial point they needed.
The draw ensured Mali’s qualification for the semi-finals while ending Gambia’s campaign in the tournament.
Throughout the match, Mali showed discipline and resilience, responding strongly each time Gambia took control.
Their ability to recover under pressure highlighted their tactical organisation and determination to progress in the competition.
Gambia’s exit came as a disappointment after a spirited performance, but their defensive lapses at key moments cost them a potential victory.
Mali, meanwhile, demonstrated their efficiency and fighting spirit, attributes that will serve them well in the upcoming semi-finals.
The result also reflected the competitive nature of the WAFU A U17 tournament, where fine margins continue to separate qualification and elimination.
For Mali, advancing to the last four represents another step towards their ultimate goal of earning a spot in the continental U17 competition.
As the tournament progresses, Mali will aim to build on this momentum and improve their defensive coordination while maintaining their attacking sharpness. With talents like Aboubacar Maïga leading their charge, the young Eagles look ready for greater challenges ahead.
