Maurice Revello Tournament: Mali surprise hosts France to keep semifinal hopes alive

After a defeat to begin their time in the south of France at the renowned Maurice Revello Tournament (f.k.a Toulon Tournament), the under-20 national team of Mali bounced back with a penalty shootout victory over the hosts on Friday.

A talented Malian side got off to a perfect start inside twenty minutes when Red Bull Salzburg Gaossou Diakité finished from a clever assist by Stade Rennais forward Wilson Samaké.

The French selection responded close to halftime in an even first half. Mali looked much more dangerous in the second half but were unable to find the winning goal which prevented them from collecting three points. However, Les Aigles did keep their calm to finish the job in the penalty shootout, winning 5-4 in spot kicks to earn two points.

Mali remain in last place in Group A but the group remains tight. A victory in their final match against Saudi Arabia will see Mali finish in a top-2 position and qualify for the semifinals.

Group A Table

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