Ghana’s Black Starlets lost the 2017 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations trophy to Mali on Sunday, May 28 after going 1-0 down to the Eaglets in the final of the tournament.
The goal was the first to be conceded by the Starlets in open play at this year’s tournament, which was held in Gabon.
A 21st minute penalty converted by Mamadou Samake after John Otu felled his Malian opponent in the box, the goal was the only one that separated the two West African sides.
The Malians dominated the midfield with Abdoul Salam Ad Jiddou leading the charge.
Ghana goalie Danlad Ibrahim was called to action on a number of occasions, saving a Malian second penalty in one instance.
Mali’s Youssouf Koita also had to make a stunning save from a Ghana free kick to keep his side still in the lead.
The likes of Starlets’ captain Eric Ayiah, who was awarded the Golden Boot of the tourney, were neutralised by the Malians, whose win is the second in succession for them. They beat South Africa 2-0 in the Niger 2015 finals to win their maiden title.
The match was played at a near-full capacity Stade de l’Amitie in the Gabonese capital of Libreville.
In attendance were officials of the Confederation of African Football (Caf) led by its president Dr Ahmad Ahmad.
Guinea picked up the Bronze medal after beating Niger 3-1 in the 3rd place play-off just before the final.
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