The Zambia Under-17 National Team has been paired with Mali in what promises to be a thrilling Round of 32 encounter at the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
The match will see two of Africa’s finest youth sides face off for a place in the Round of 16, setting up an all-African showdown at the Aspire Zone in Doha.
Zambia qualified as Group H runners-up, finishing the group stage unbeaten with seven points from three matches , victories over Indonesia (3-1) and Honduras (5-2), followed by a spirited 1-1 draw with Brazil.
Mali, meanwhile, finished second in Group L, where they showed both power and resilience. The West Africans recorded wins over New Zealand (3-0) and Saudi Arabia (2-0), but suffered a 3-0 loss to Austria in their second match.
That form saw Mali collect six points, scoring five goals and conceding three, with key men Bomba, Dembélé, Ballo and Diakité all on the scoresheet during the group phase.
The tie brings together two nations rich in youth football pedigree. Mali, a former U-17 World Cup finalist, are known for their physical strength and tactical discipline, while Zambia have captured global attention with their fluid play and fearless mentality.
Both sides enter the contest with confidence , Zambia unbeaten and hungry to extend their fairytale run, and Mali eager to reaffirm their continental reputation after a solid group-stage showing.
For Zambia, the key will be maintaining balance between defensive organisation and attacking intent.
Coach Dennis Makinka is expected to rely once again on the creative link of Jonathan Kalimina, the leadership of Christo Chitambala in goal, and the industrious midfield that has powered the young Chipolopolo this far.
The coach has already emphasised mental readiness as a decisive factor, reminding his players that every stage of the tournament now demands precision and maturity.
The victor between Zambia and Mali will advance to face either Morocco or the United States in the Round of 16, a fixture that promises to further test Africa’s dominance at this year’s tournament.
With two African sides meeting this early in the competition, fans can expect a contest of passion, skill, and pride, the kind that reminds the world just how bright Africa’s football future truly is.
