Bamako, Mali – (African Boulevard News) – Malian forward Mamadou Doumbia hopes the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) can be a springboard for him and his teammates to prosper their careers and make the next big moves. Doumbia, who plies his trade with AS Bamako in the Malian top flight, is part of the Under-17 national team set to compete in the tournament that takes place in Morocco in 2023.
The TotalEnergies-sponsored tournament, which brings together the best young footballing talent from Africa, promises to be a launching pad for many young players who are seeking to make a name for themselves on the continent and beyond. Doumbia is optimistic about his chances of making a name for himself and his team on the continent and beyond.
“For me personally and for my team, this competition is an opportunity to showcase our talents and abilities to the world. We hope to make the most of it to get noticed and open new doors for ourselves,” said Doumbia.
The young forward’s sentiments are not unfounded, as the TotalEnergies U17 AFCON has been a stepping stone for many young African talents who have gone on to have successful careers. Previous editions of the tournament have produced players like Samuel Eto’o, Yaya Toure, and Nwankwo Kanu, who went on to become legends of the African game.
The Malian Under-17 team, which will be coached by former national team player Mahamadou Diarra, will be looking to better their third-place finish in the previous edition of the tournament held in Tanzania in 2019. And with Doumbia leading their frontline, they are hopeful of going all the way.
“The team is preparing well for the competition, and we are confident that we can go all the way. It won’t be easy, as we know the level of competition is high, but we are ready for the challenge,” added Doumbia.
The TotalEnergies U17 AFCON will give players like Doumbia a platform to showcase their talents and abilities on the continent, and with the right attitude and determination, who knows what the future holds for the young Malian forward and his teammates.
