Zambia has been eliminated from the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup after a 3-1 defeat to Mali in the round of 32 on Friday.

Mali controlled the match from the outset, registering six shots on target compared to Zambia’s one. However, goalkeeper Christo Chitambala kept the Young Chipolopolo in the game with six crucial first-half saves.

Unfortunately for Dennis Makinka’s side, Chitambala was unable to return for the second half due to injury and was replaced by Rogers Simumbe. Mali quickly took advantage, opening the scoring seven minutes after the restart through Ndjicoura Bomba, who headed home from close range after being left unmarked in the box.

Zambia responded ten minutes later, with Mapalo Simute tapping in the equaliser from close range to bring the game level.

But with five minutes left, Mali intensified their pressure, and Seydou Dembele restored their lead in the 85th minute. Lamine Keita then sealed the victory in stoppage time (90+2) following clumsy defending from Zambia.

Mali has since advanced to the round of 16, where they will face the winner between Morocco and the United States.

For the Young Chipolopolo, who were making their debut at the tournament, the journey ends here—but they can take pride in exiting the competition with only one defeat in four matches, having beaten Indonesia 3-1 and Honduras 5-2, with a 1-1 draw against Brazil.

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