Youssouf Niakate is a prolific Malian striker currently spearheading the attack for Baniyas Club in the UAE Pro League. A player with explosive pace and a clinical finishing touch, Niakate has been a consistent goal threat throughout his career, which has taken him from Mali to clubs in Belgium, Turkey, and now the Middle East. His breakthrough came in the Belgian league with teams like K.V. Oostende, where his ability to run in behind defences and score from various angles made him a fan favorite. A key highlight was a season where he netted over 15 league goals, attracting interest from bigger clubs. On the international stage, he has been a regular for the Mali national team, contributing important goals in AFCON qualifiers. His main honors include individual scoring awards and being a pivotal player in his clubs' successful campaigns. With a significant market value, Niakate is regarded as a top-tier striker in his current league, feared for his movement and lethal instinct in front of goal.