Mali’s five goals were scored by Ibrahim Diarra (14′), Mahamoud Barry (26′), Ibrahim Kanate (73′), Hamidou Makalou (77′) and Ousmane Thiero (90+1′). A goal for Canada came back thanks to Richard Chukwu (45th).
This result was their third loss in Group B. This means Canada still loses. Before being defeated by Mali, Canada first suffered defeats against Spain and Uzbekistan.
Canada coach Andrew Olivieri expressed his disappointment with the result of this match. However, he still expressed his gratitude to the children on his team who were ready to continue fighting until the last minute.
“I think the tournament as a whole is painful. Because we failed to achieve victory, we were unable to advance to the next round. But we kept fighting and trying until the end,” Olivieri said.
“I think it’s important for them to show passion and courage when they do it. I mean, that’s the starting point. I tell them there, that’s the base. Then everything has to grow from there. It must be developed. And I think tonight they showed the most fight,” he said.
Canada is the first confirmed team to fail to qualify for the round of 16. They have gone three matches without a win and of course without points in Group B.
On the other hand, Mali is vice-champion of group B behind Spain. Mali has six points, while Spain has seven. These two teams are guaranteed to qualify for the round of 16.
“We can get all three points. We are very happy with these results. Today is very good. It was hot, before the match it was raining. “I see that the next match will be better,” said Soumaila Coulibaly, Mali coach.
Runner-up status in Group B means Mali will compete again at the GBT Stadium in the round of 16 on November 21, 2023. They will meet the finalists from Group F. ***
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