Mali u17 prepares for can u17 2026 with focus on growth after Uganda loss

The Mali U17 national team kicked off their preparation for the CAN U17 2026 in Morocco with a narrow defeat to Uganda (0-1). Under the guidance of head coach Demba Mamadou Traoré, the young eagles showed glimpses of promise but struggled to convert chances, highlighting areas for improvement ahead of the tournament.

With the final phase looming, the technical staff is prioritizing key adjustments: enhancing finishing accuracy in both penalty areas, refining possession transitions, perfecting set-piece strategies, and reinforcing team chemistry. Every training session serves as a platform to evaluate tactical decisions and provide young talent with valuable game time ahead of the competition.

The team’s next challenge comes on May 9, 2026, when they face Ghana in a crucial warm-up match. The goal is to rebound from the setback against Uganda and build momentum before the continental showdown.