Mali have been eliminated from the Under-20 World Cup after a 4-1 defeat to Mexico.
Moussa Keita's side needed to win by two clear goals to progress to the next stage of the competition, but goals from Marco Bueno, Jesus Corona, Jesus Escoboza and Uvaldo Luna put paid to their hopes.
Mexico opened the scoring with just two minutes on the clock when Mali goalkeeper Germain Berthe kicked his clearance straight to Bueno, who slotted the ball into the net.
Corona was then denied by Berthe from close range, but he extended Mexico's lead on 12 minutes when he headed home Carlos Lopez's free kick at the back post.
Mexico almost made it three on 20 minutes when Jonathan Espericueta's shot deflected off Ousmane Keita and rolled inches wide of the post.
Mali improved after the break, going close when Ibrahima Diallo's free kick was was palmed away by Richard Sanchez. They pulled a goal back when a volley from Samba Diallo bounced over Sanchez's hands and into the net.
Mexico restored their two-goal cushion with 20 minutes remaining when Escoboza cut inside from the left and struck a low effort across the keeper and into the bottom corner of the net.
Mexico continued to create chances and bagged a fourth goal when Luna placed a low finish beyond Bertha after being played through by Julio Morales.
Mali forced several corners in the final minutes of the match but could not find a consolation goal.
The win means that Mexico can still qualify for the next phase as one of the best third-placed sides.
Steven Toplis
