Doumbia hat-trick fires Mali to U17 World Cup win over Uzbekistan
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A Mamadou Doumbia hat-trick propelled Mali to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their opening match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup on Friday.
The Africans were in control throughout against their overmatched Asian opponents in Group B. 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 Africans 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.
On this evidence, 2015 runners-up Mali have the quality to make another deep run at the U-17 World Cup. Doumbia's clinical finishing could make the difference in tight knockout games.
