The Zambia Under-17 Boys National Team will take on Mali in the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 32, on Friday, November 14 at the Aspire Zone in Qatar.
Zambia advanced as Group H runners-up with an unblemished record of seven points from three matches, defeating Indonesia 3-1 and Honduras 5-2, before earning a 1-1 draw with Brazil to secure their knockout berth.
Mali, on the other end, finished second in Group L with six points, recording victories over New Zealand (3-0) and Saudi Arabia (2-0), but suffered a 3-0 defeat to Austria.
Zambia U17 Boys Head Coach Dennis Makinka says mental preparation will be key, noting that the knockout stages demand heightened precision and maturity.
The winner of this all-African battle will meet either Morocco or the United States in the Round of 16, with Africa’s continued presence in the tournament hanging in the balance.
By Canaan Siame
