Mali secured their place in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a decisive 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Tuesday’s semi-final held in Casablanca. (CAF Photo)

The young Eagles scored one goal in each half to advance to Saturday’s championship match, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between hosts Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire, scheduled for later on Tuesday.

Mali took the lead in the 42nd minute when Soumaila Fané unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, finding the top corner and leaving the Burkina Faso goalkeeper with no chance.

Despite a spirited response from the Stallions, Mali extended their lead midway through the second half. Mahamadou Traoré soared to meet Fané’s precise cross in the 74th minute, heading it home to secure the victory.

The match at Stade Larbi Zaouli was intense and physical, with Burkina Faso fighting hard but ultimately failing to penetrate Mali’s well-organized defense.

The Baby Stallions created several opportunities, including a close-range header from Halidou Diakité that went over the bar, but they lacked the finishing touch.

Burkina Faso finished the match with nine players after both Ali Koné and Alassana Bagayogo received second yellow cards in the second half, adding to their frustration.

Meanwhile, Mali exhibited maturity and tactical discipline throughout the contest, controlling key moments and managing the game with composure in the closing stages.

With this victory, Mali returns to the final of the U-17 AFCON for the first time since 2017, when they claimed the title. The West Africans are now just one match away from regaining continental glory.

Burkina Faso will compete against the loser of the second semi-final in the third-place playoff, which is also scheduled for Saturday.