Africa’s presence at the FIFA U-17 World Cup remains strong as the knockout stage approaches. Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, and Egypt all made headlines.
Senegal’s Young Teranga Lions topped Group C in style after demolishing the UAE 5-0. Bakary Sonko was the star, scoring a hat-trick, while Malick Cissé and Victor Mendy completed the rout.
Head coach Papa Ibrahima Faye praised his team’s tactical maturity, saying, “Before leaving Senegal, we set two goals: qualify and finish top of our group. Thank God we achieved both.”
Meanwhile, South Africa secured safe passage despite a 3-1 defeat to Italy. Shaun Els’ first-half strike briefly brought hope before the Azzurrini took control. Nevertheless, South Africa’s four points ensured they advanced as group A runners-up.
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Mixed fortunes across the continent
Elsewhere, Egypt’s progression was confirmed following results in other groups, offering another bright spot for African representation.
Tunisia, however, face an anxious wait. A 2-0 loss to Belgium, worsened by Saifedin Haj Abdallah’s red card, left them depending on other outcomes to qualify among the best third-placed teams.
So far, Africa’s flag continues to fly high at the U-17 World Cup. Tunisia’s fate remains uncertain, but the continent’s young stars have already shown they can compete — and inspire — on the global stage.
Tags: Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Egypt, FIFA U-17 World Cup, #U17WC, Bakary Sonko, Malick Cissé, Young Teranga Lions, Saifedin Haj Abdallah, Papa Ibrahima Faye, Victor Mendy, Azzurrini, Shaun Els.
