Tanzania, Mali Advance to U-17 AFCON Quarter-finals and FIFA World Cup

Tanzania, Mali Advance to U-17 AFCON Quarter-finals and FIFA World Cup

By Admin 

CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations delivered a dramatic conclusion to Group C action on Wednesday, as Tanzania and Mali secured places in the quarter-finals and qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Mozambique also kept their World Cup hopes alive by clinching a playoff spot following a crucial victory over Angola.

Mali 2-1 Tanzania

Mali and Tanzania entered the encounter knowing qualification was within reach, but it was Mali who made the brighter start.

The Young Eagles took the lead just three minutes into the contest through striker Abdoulaye Touré, who continued his impressive form in the tournament. Touré struck again in the 41st minute to hand Mali a comfortable advantage at half-time after a dominant opening period.

Tanzania responded strongly in the latter stages and pulled one back through Hassan Mkindai in the 82nd minute, setting up a tense finish. However, Mali held firm to secure all three points.

Despite the defeat, Tanzania finished top of Group C with six points, while both sides advanced to the quarter-finals and officially booked their places at the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026.

Angola 1-2 Mozambique

In the group’s other decisive fixture, Mozambique defeated Angola 2-1 to secure third place and remain in contention for a World Cup berth through the playoff route.

Mozambique made an energetic start and opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through Allan Figueiredo. Angola responded quickly, with Francisco Eliseu restoring parity five minutes later.

After the break, Charif Carlos delivered the decisive goal in the 55th minute with a composed finish that restored Mozambique’s lead.

Disciplined defending and strong organisation helped the Young Mambas preserve their advantage until the final whistle, while Angola’s campaign came to an end with the defeat.

The result ensures Mozambique remain in the hunt for qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup, while Tanzania and Mali advance directly as Group C’s top two teams.