Mali wins opening AFCON U17 scuffle against resilient Angola
Mali got off to a winning start at the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after the Eaglets defeated Angola on Tuesday in the opening match from Group D.
It was an unpredictable match at the Stade Berrechid in Morocco where inexperienced defending on both sides created plenty of suspense.
After a strong start, Mali took the lead in the 11th minute when poor passing by the Angolan defense led to an interception. Seydou Dembele’s dribbling run was halted by a tackle in the penalty area but the ball fell to Ndjicoura Bomba who bounced his shot past Angola goalkeeper Gelson Dala.
The Palancas Negras battled back and got themselves into the match. Just when it appeared that Mali would escape to halftime with the lead, disastrous goalkeeping allowed Angola to equalize through Puna’s header.
Angola’s attack was silenced by a more focused and determined performance from Mali, who proceeded to control the second half. The reward for the Eaglets arrived in the 74th minute when more questionable goalkeeping allowed Soungalo Coulibaly to score directly from a corner kick.
Angola failed to muster much of a comeback effort and Mali were able to hold on and secure an important early victory. Mali will next face Central African Republic on Friday while Angola duel with Ivory Coast on the same day.
