Burkina Faso boost knockout hopes with win at FIFA Under-17 World Cup

Burkina Faso picked up a victory at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar on Saturday, but Uganda had to settle for a draw and Mali were beaten on a mixed day for African sides.

Burkina Faso gave their hopes of a Round of 32 place a real boost with a 2-1 Group I victory over Czech Republic, bouncing back from an opening game defeat to the United States.

Mohamed Zongo put Burkina Faso ahead in the first half but that joy was short-lived as Vit Skrkon equalised for the Czechs.

But the Burkinabe would not be denied as Asharaf Tapsoba netted the winner on 50 minutes, in a game where the African side had only 34% of the possession but dominated chances created. 

Burkina Faso face Tajikistan in their final pool game on Tuesday where a draw should be enough to advance to the Round of 32, but a win certainly will be.

Uganda picked up their first point of the tournament with a 1-1 Group K draw against Chile.

They fell behind on the stroke of halftime but Derick Ssozi equalised in the third minute of added time at the end of the game.

They will go into their final clash against France on Tuesday knowing a victory will be needed to advance to the knockout rounds. 

Mali slipped to a 3-0 loss to Austria in their second Group L game that leaves them with three points from two fixtures.

They are next in action on Tuesday against Saudi Arabia and will want at least a draw.

The top two teams in each group automatically advance to the Round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed teams, providing plenty of opportunities for qualification.