The excitement is palpable in Azerbaijan as the U15 World Cup enters its knockout phase following an intense first round. After three action-packed days, the 189 participating teams have been categorized into six divisions based on their initial rankings. The group winners will advance to League A, which is the only division that allows teams to compete for the prestigious title. Meanwhile, the second-placed teams drop down to League B, and the hierarchy continues down to League F. Unlike traditional World Cups, no team is outright eliminated, allowing all teams to continue competing within their respective divisions, with classification matches scheduled until October 30.
Key African Matches for Morocco and Algeria
Having finished the group stage undefeated with four wins and a draw, Algeria has earned its spot in League A. Under the guidance of coach Karim Ziani, the Algerian squad will face Guinea in the round of 16 on Wednesday at 11:30 AM local time, according to the official FIFA schedule. This matchup is particularly significant as both teams have shown impressive form throughout the tournament. Guinea's squad notably secured a resounding 6-0 victory against Singapore and also finished the group stage unbeaten, presenting a formidable challenge for the young Fennecs. Algeria, however, has already demonstrated its ability to surprise with a stunning performance against Argentina, showcasing their offensive prowess led by standout player Abdelkarim Meharzi.
In another highly anticipated African clash, Morocco will also take on Cameroon at the same time on Wednesday. The Moroccan team, known as the Lionceaux de l’Atlas, has enjoyed a flawless campaign, notching a perfect record and a spectacular 7-0 victory over Curaçao to secure their advancement to League A. The Cameroonian team, who finished ahead of Senegal in their group, will undoubtedly pose a tough challenge to Morocco as both teams aim for a place in the quarter-finals.
In total, six other African teams will participate in League A, further bolstering the continent's representation. Ghana will face South Korea, Egypt will challenge Albania, Angola will meet the Czech Republic, and Kenya will go up against Poland. With Algeria set to clash with Guinea and Morocco facing Cameroon, Africa is guaranteed at least two teams in the round of 16, highlighting the continent's growing prominence in youth football.
Sénégal and Côte d'Ivoire Progress to League B
Despite strong performances that earned them second-place finishes in their respective groups, Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire will continue their journey in League B. The Senegalese Lionceaux will battle Georgia, while the Ivorian team, after a tough final match against Albania, will face Kyrgyzstan in their upcoming encounter. These matches, scheduled for Wednesday at 9:45 AM, will not lead to a pursuit of the overall title but will keep the hope alive for claiming the League B trophy.
Other African nations will also remain in the competition's lower divisions. Tunisia will contest Namibia in League C, while Benin will take on Cuba, and Nigeria will face New Caledonia. The Democratic Republic of Congo, which secured its first victory in its final group match, will compete in League D against Mauritius. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso will challenge the Dominican Republic, Mauritania will meet Zimbabwe, and Togo will go up against Burundi. These matches are primarily focused on providing valuable international experience and playing time for young players. However, for Algeria, Morocco, Guinea, and Cameroon, the pursuit of a true world title is now firmly within reach.
As reported by afrik-foot.com.
