U17 World Cup: A Rematch Between Morocco and Mali, Uganda Continues to Forge Its Path

November 16, 2025

2 minutes read

U17 World Cup: Morocco’s National Team Set to Clash with Mali

The Moroccan U17 national team will face off against their Malian counterparts on Tuesday at pitch number 7 in the Aspire Zone, Doha (16:45 GMT+1), in the round of 16 of the U17 World Cup. This match is a rematch of the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (Morocco-2025). Meanwhile, Uganda, who qualified at the expense of Senegal, will take on Burkina Faso.

The Lion Cubs of the Atlas triumphed over the United States in the previous round, winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw during regulation time. Goalkeeper Chouaïb Bellaarouch was a standout performer, making two crucial saves that secured Morocco’s advancement to the next stage. They will need to replicate their success from the Africa Cup of Nations, where they defeated Mali in the final (0-0, 2-4 on penalties).

This match will not be an easy task for coach Nabil Baha’s squad, who understands the stakes involved in this encounter for the continuation of their journey in the tournament.

Following the match against the United States, the national coach remarked, “We know our next opponent well; we played against them and won the Africa Cup of Nations final. However, this is a different competition with a different mindset.” He emphasized that “the match against Mali will be tough, but we are aiming for victory to stay in this competition.”

Chouaïb Bellaarouch echoed this sentiment, stating, “The match against Mali will be different,” adding that “we will face a different team with a different objective and mindset.”

Mali, who eliminated Zambia 3-1 in the round of 16, will be looking for revenge against the Lion Cubs of the Atlas, who are determined to keep their World Cup campaign alive.

On a high after eliminating Senegal 1-0 in the round of 16, Uganda is continuing to write their own story in this competition. This is their first appearance in any World Cup tournament, regardless of age category or gender.

Indeed, the Cranes made headlines by defeating France (2023 finalists) 1-0 to secure their place in the knockout stages, where they shone against Senegal, ensuring progression to the next round.

Uganda will now face Burkina Faso, who pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday by eliminating reigning champions Germany, winning 1-0 in a match that showcased their resilience and combativeness.

Fueled by this remarkable achievement and their strong display against Germany, the Young Stallions will spare no effort to prevail in this second all-African round of 16 clash.

Below is the schedule for the round of 16 matches:

Tuesday, November 18: