Head Coach of Mali’s national under-17 team has dedicated the team’s semifinal win to people of the country insisting he hopes their progress brings peace to the West African nation.
Mali advanced to the finnals of the Africa Junior championship in Gabon after beating Guinea 2-0 on penaling following a goalless draw game.
The junior eagles will now face the Black Starlets of Ghana in the final on Sunday. Ghana also went through after defeating Niger 6-5 on penalties.
“I dedicate this win to the people of Mali. I hope it brings peace to the communities in Mali,” Komla told CAF ONLINE.
“The football administrators also deserve to enjoy the share of this moment. They have done a lot to make sure this team comes here.
“We were even not sure that we would play in this tournament but they did all they could to make sure that the team comes for the tournament,” he continued.
“Guinea played a bit of a physical game but I instructed my players to remain strong during the match or else they give Guinea the chance to play the final.
“The mindset of the players was right as they really wanted to beat Guinea in this match,” he added.
“We shall plan well for Ghana and we are sure it will be an interesting match. We are now thinking about winning the cup.”
Mali were runnersup at the FIFA U-17 world Cupin 2015 andhave now qualified for this years edition in India.
By Lukman Evergreen Mumin