Pakistan’s U-16 football team had an extraordinary run in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U16 Championship in Bhutan, defying the odds and surprising many. Despite their ultimate loss in the semi-finals, the team displayed great skill and determination throughout the tournament.
Opening Triumph
In their opening match against the host, Bhutan, Pakistan secured a 2–1 victory at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu. After conceding an early goal, Pakistan quickly turned the game around with goals from captain Ubaid Ullah Khan and Subhan Karim, establishing their dominance and securing the win.
Dominant Victory
Pakistan continued their impressive performance in the second match against Maldives, triumphing with a convincing 3–0 victory. Subhan Karim, Abdul Samad, and an own goal from the Maldives goalkeeper contributed to Pakistan’s success, securing their spot in the semi-finals.
Semi-Final Disappointment
However, Pakistan’s journey in the SAFF U16 Championship came to an end in the semi-final match against Bangladesh. Pakistan’s Abdul Ghani scored an early goal, but Bangladesh quickly equalized and took the lead, ultimately winning the game 2–1. Despite the loss, Pakistan showcased their talent and determination throughout the tournament.
NOC Controversy
The Pakistan Football Federation initially faced obstacles in gaining permission to participate in the event, with the NOC issuance causing doubt about their involvement. However, with the intervention of top government officials and pressure from the Pakistan football community, the U-16 team received the necessary clearance to compete in the championship.
Pakistan Under 16 Football Squad
The squad consisted of talented players from various positions, including goalkeepers Aadil Ali Khan, Balach Khan, and Ghulam Abbas, defenders Abdul Rehman, M. Husnain Saleem, Najeem Khan, Sameer Ahmed, Ubaid Ullah Khan, Majid Ali, Syed Muhammad Aabis Raza, and Umar Javed, midfielders Abdul Samad, Muhammad Faraz, Farhad, Haroon Rashed, Hikmat Ullah, Khobaib Khan, M. Shahab Ahmed, and Muhammad Khan, and forwards Abdul Ghani, Husnain Wali Raza, Subhan Karim, and Syed Kabir Ali Shah.
The team was supported by dedicated personnel, including head coach Sajjad Mahmood, assistant coach Mohammad Hassan, physical trainer Mohammad Ali Khan, goalkeeper coach Jaffar Khan, physiotherapist Mohammad Abdullah Aamir, and media officer Mohammad Yashal Mazhar.