African champions Mali and reigning world champions Nigeria are of course to face each other in the final of the ongoing U-17 World Cup in Chile.

Both teams have dispatched their opponents when it mattered so far and are just a game each from the final. Should they triumph over their foes again, the world would be treated to the first all-African final since Nigeria beat Ghana 2-1 in the competition's only all-African final ever in 1993 in Japan.

The exciting Malians are unbeaten in the tournament so far and have beaten all comers since their opening day draw with Belgium, including Croatia who beat Nigeria 2-1 in the group stage.

While the Malians have been both the most attack-minded side in the competition with over 110 goal attempts in five games, they have also boasted the meanest defence, having conceded only one goal.

Nigeria on the other hand have conceded three goals, but are the top scoring side in Chile having plundered 17 goals in their five games, with eight of those coming from record-chasing Victor Osimhen.

Two more goals and the 16-year-old striker would become the top scorer in a single tournament in the competition's history.

Meanwhile, while Nigeria have won a record four titles in the competition and also hold the record for the most semi-final appearances - eight - Mali are in their first semi-final and will be making their first final if they beat Belgium.

To reach the final, Nigeria also face a stern challenge against Mexico.

The semi-finals will be played on Thursday, while the final will be played on Sunday.

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