Africa’s representative at the 2023 FIFA under-17 World Cup demolished Argentine team to claim a podium finish in Indonesia.
Mali’s national under-17 team finished third at the ongoing 2023 FIFA U17 World Cup after a stunning performance against one of the favourites for the title Argentina.
During the semi-finals played Tuesday, France eliminated Mali by 2-1 while Germany knocked Argentina by 4-2 after a 3-3 draw. France and Germany will trade tackles in the final on Saturday for the coveted trophy.
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The West Africans faced the formidable South Americans but came out unscathed following a shocking and resounding 3-0 win in the third-place game on Friday.
Mali stuns Argentina
Argentina was the favourite heading into the bronze medal clash but from the blast of the whistle to the final, the Malians were clear with their intentions and never looked back.
Known for their football legacy, Argentina was second-best against the Hamdiou Makalou-inspired Mali.
Makalou was a handful for Argentina from start to finish after he contributed two of the three goals against the South Americans.
He assisted the second goal after Ibrahim Diarra’s ninth-minute opener and wrapped up proceedings by netting the third goal, the best of the three goals from Mali.
It was no less than Mali following a convincing and dominant performance against the dull Argentina.
Mali attempted 33 shots, with 15 of them on target while they also created five big chances compared to zero for the South Americans.
The celebrations at full-time were as gracious and deserved as the Malians revered in their remarkable achievement – leaving Indonesia with a medal, albeit a bronze.
