TotalEnergies U17 AFCON: We are not favourites for Congo clash - Mali coach

Mali’s head coach Soumaïla Coulibaly says they are not favorites heading into Thursday’s TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter final duel against Congo in Annaba.

Mali have been impressive so far with two victories in the group stage against defending champions Cameroon and Burkina Faso, and they will come up against Congo who were winless from Group A and progressed as one of the best two third placed teams.

“In the Youth categories, there are no favorites,” said Coulibaly.

“It is a quarter final and everyone is coming to play hard to win. The match provides a direct ticket to the World Cup and we are here for that. That is our ambition and we will work hard to try get it,” further added the tactician.

Having played a match less after the disqualification of South Sudan before the tournament, Coulibaly has said the extra days have given them more time for rest and recovery amnd they will be fresher for the tie.

He has said he expects a beautiful display of football in the game, as Congo is also a ball-playing team.

“They play the ball really well and it is a good thing for us. Youth football is all about these kinds of games,” the coach stated.

At the same time, defender Ousmane Simpara says the players are determined to clinch the important ticket to the World Cup.

“There is no pressure on us and we go into this match to do everything possible to win. We want to win the game and qualify for the World Cup, the proceed to fight to win the title,” said Simpara.

Mali is the only team in the tournament’s history to win back to back titles, having clinched the crown in 2015 and 2017. They are seeking a record extending third African title.