Zambia Face Mali, Senegal Meet Uganda As U-17 World Cup Enters Knockout Stage

Zambia Face Mali, Senegal Meet Uganda As U-17 World Cup Enters Knockout Stage

By Admin 

Africa’s strong showing at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 continues, with nine teams from the continent advancing to the Round of 32  the highest representation from any confederation at this stage, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The draw has set up two all-African clashes, ensuring at least two teams will progress to the Round of 16. The fixtures — Zambia vs. Mali and Senegal vs. Uganda headline a packed weekend of knockout action.

Meanwhile, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Burkina Faso, and Tunisia will test themselves against opponents from Europe, Asia, and North America as Africa looks to extend its growing influence at youth level.

All-African Showdowns

Zambia vs. Mali Friday, 14 November, 15:30 (Mahmoud Soufi Stadium)

A meeting of familiar rivals opens the knockout phase. Zambia’s attacking flair will go up against Mali’s tournament experience in what promises to be a fiercely competitive tie.

Senegal vs. Uganda Saturday, 15 November, 15:30 (Mansour Muftah Stadium)

Senegal, winners of their group and among the top scorers in the competition, face a disciplined Uganda side that advanced through a challenging pool. Expect a tactical battle defined by pace and set pieces.

Other African Fixtures

Switzerland vs. Egypt – Friday, 14 November, 16:00 (Khaled Ballan Stadium)

Egypt’s counter-attacking efficiency will be tested against Switzerland’s defensive discipline. The Young Pharaohs’ ability to transition quickly could prove decisive.

USA vs. Morocco Friday, 14 November, 18:45 (Mansour Muftah Stadium)

Morocco face a high-energy USA side in what could be one of the round’s standout matches. The Atlas Cubs will need defensive focus to handle the Americans’ relentless pressing.

Japan vs. South Africa Saturday, 15 November, 16:30 (Bader Bilal Stadium)

South Africa’s resilience will be key against Japan’s technically sharp, quick-passing side. A disciplined counter-attacking plan may give Bafana Bafana their best chance.

Germany vs. Burkina Faso – Saturday, 15 November, 17:45 (Ibrahim Khalfan Stadium)

Burkina Faso have built their run on determination and clinical finishing, but they’ll need their best performance yet against a well-drilled German team.

Austria vs. Tunisia – Saturday, 15 November, 18:45 (Khaled Ballan Stadium)

Tunisia’s defensive structure will be tested by Austria’s efficiency. Expect a tight contest likely to hinge on set pieces or moments of composure in front of goal.

Why It Matters for Africa

With nine African teams in the knockout phase and at least two guaranteed spots in the Round of 16 the continent continues to underline its strength at youth level.

Strong performances from Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Burkina Faso, and Tunisia could further boost Africa’s representation deep into the tournament.

The knockout bracket has been designed based on group-stage performance, ensuring that teams from the same group do not meet again at this stage. Winners will move on to the Round of 16, as the race toward the final in Doha intensifies.