Morocco U-17 faces Mali U-17 in World Cup Round of 16 rematch in Qatar

Created on:

By: Michael Brown

Morocco U-17 faces Mali U-17 on November 18, 2025 at 3:45 PM UTC. This all-African Round of 16 clash is at Aspire Zone Pitch 7 in Doha, Qatar. Both squads want a spot in the quarterfinals. The Young Lions claimed Morocco’s first-ever U-17 Africa Cup title in 2025.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Match Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 15:45 UTC
  • Venue: Aspire Zone – Pitch 7, Doha, Qatar
  • Competition: FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 16 (knockout stage)
  • Morocco’s Form: Won 16-0 vs New Caledonia, historic 2025 U-17 Africa Cup champions
  • Mali’s Path: Currently in Round of 16 contention; made the 2015 World Cup final
  • Head-to-Head: These teams met in the 2025 U-17 AFCON semifinals (Morocco won on penalties 6-5 after 0-0 draw)

The All-African Rematch is Here

Morocco and Mali clash once again in Qatar after their thrilling AFCON showdown. This rematch carries serious weight for African youth football. Both nations earned Round of 16 spots after impressive group performances. Morocco romped to victory against New Caledonia 16-0, making historic headlines with FIFA’s new green card system. Mali also impressed to advance, beating several tough competitors. The energy will be electric.

“In 2023, the Young Lions edged out the Eaglets in the U17 AFCON semi-finals on penalties (6-5) after a goalless draw in regular time.”

— Yahoo Sports

Morocco arrives at this stage as defending AFCON champions. Mali brings experience from their 2015 U-17 World Cup final. Both squads want a quarterfinals berth. This isn’t just another match—this is African pride on the line. Four African nations made the Round of 16, showing continental strength at youth level.

Key Stats and Tournament Details

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 runs through November 27. A total of 48 teams compete across eight pitches at Aspire Zone. Morocco’s 16-0 victory set a new U-17 World Cup record for largest margin. This match takes place during a crucial knockout round. Winners advance straight to the quarterfinals. Losers exit the tournament immediately.

Match Info Details
Fixture Morocco U-17 vs Mali U-17
Date Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Kick-Off Time 15:45 UTC (ET: 10:45 AM)
Venue Aspire Zone – Pitch 7, Doha
Stage Round of 16 (Knockout)
TV Coverage Telemundo, FOX Sports, FIFA+

Both teams played competitive group stages. Morocco topped their group with dominant wins. Mali also advanced as one of only four African representatives. The Aspire Zone complex hosted all preliminary matches. This Round of 16 marks when stakes rise for every squad competing.

African Youth Football’s Biggest Battle

This showdown highlights African youth talent at the world stage. Morocco demonstrated firepower with their 16-0 rout. Mali showed resilience and tactical nous to advance from a tougher group. The rivalry between these teams intensified after their 2025 AFCON meeting. Expect intensity, passion, and brilliant football. Both benches have young stars with senior national team potential.

Morocco’s squad features players familiar with pressure matches. Mali brings tournament experience and a winning mentality. Youth World Cups produce future international stars regularly. These U-17 matches matter deeply for player development. Every youth wins here builds future national team depth.

What’s Next After This Match?

  • Winners advance directly to quarterfinals later this month
  • Losers are eliminated from the World Cup 2025 tournament
  • Quarterfinals scheduled for later rounds in November
  • Tournament final set for November 27 at Khalifa Stadium
  • Top performers will gain senior team attention from national coaches

Will Morocco’s Dominance Continue in the Knockout Stage?

Morocco enters as clear favorites after their dominant group performance. Yet Mali proved they can hang with anybody. The 2025 AFCON final went to penalties—penalties!—showing these teams are evenly matched. Morocco’s young players showed clinical finishing against weaker opponents. Mali’s defensive organization impressed throughout qualification. This match could go either way until the final whistle. Which team deserves the quarterfinals berth: the offensive powerhouse or the tactical masters?

Sources

  • FIFA Official – Tournament schedule and match details
  • ESPN – Live coverage and team statistics
  • FOX Sports – U-17 World Cup preview analysis

Leave a Comment