U17 World Cup: Morocco And Mali Record Wins On First Day

By: Gyang Dakwo

Morocco and Mali have kicked of their campaign at the FIFA U17 World Cup which began on Friday in Indonesia, on a positive note.

Morocco set the pace with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Panama in a Group A opener at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, with goals from Saifdine Chlaghmo and Ayman Ennair earning the Atlas Cubs three points.

Chlaghmo headed Morocco in front on 16 minutes, rising highest to convert Abdelhamid Maali’s deep corner past Panama goalkeeper Manuel Romero.

Morocco controlled the first half but Panama emerged rejuvenated after the break. The Central Americans nearly equalised on 60 minutes as Oldemar Castillo cut inside and curled just wide.

Minutes later, Panama substitute Frederik Krug somehow side-footed over from six yards out following Hector Rios’ cutback, spurning his side’s best opportunity.

That miss proved costly as Morocco sealed victory in second-half stoppage time. Maali’s clipped ball found Ennair breaking through on goal to delicately lift the ball over Romero.

It was a deserved win for Morocco, who dominated possession against a Panama team that competed well after their timid first half.

Morocco next face hosts Indonesia on Monday, while Panama take on Ecuador later the same day.

Meanwhile, a Mamadou Doumbia hat-trick propelled Mali to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their opening match.

Mali dominated the game from the start and Doumbia’s clinical treble ensured a dream start to Mali’s World Cup campaign.

He opened the scoring on 30 minutes after rounding Uzbek goalkeeper Muhammadyusuf Sobirov to slot home despite desperate defending on the line.

Doumbia doubled Mali’s advantage from the penalty spot on 72 minutes after Ibrahim Kanate was fouled in the area. The striker then completed his hat-trick three minutes later with an instinctive close-range finish and was named the Man of the Match following his heroics.

Kanate was a constant threat with his pace and trickery out wide. Captain Ibrahim Diarra also impressed in midfield, hitting the post with a terrific solo effort.

Mali were well-drilled and cohesive, passing the ball crisply and carving out numerous chances. Uzbekistan battled hard but struggled to contain Doumbia and Kanate’s movement.

The West African side will be full of confidence heading into Monday’s clash with European powerhouses Spain. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan face an uphill task against Canada on the same day.