Introduction: In a high-stakes clash at the SAFF U17 Championship, Pakistan took on Bhutan in what turned out to be a thrilling encounter. Pakistan, coming off a win against Nepal in their opening match, looked to secure another victory, while Bhutan also had momentum after their triumph over Sri Lanka. Both teams eyed a crucial win, but little did anyone expect the dramatic finale this game would deliver.
Pakistan lined up in their traditional green kit, with a 4-4-2 formation under manager Sajjad Mehmood. Bhutan, resilient in their own right, sought to match Pakistan’s intensity on the field. Here’s how the match unfolded minute by minute.
First Half
1’ – Early Ambition from Pakistan:
Pakistan began on the front foot with an audacious long-range attempt that sailed over the bar. A statement of intent, though lacking in precision.
2’ – Corner Drama:
Pakistan won their first corner, which was awkwardly dealt with by the Bhutanese keeper, who sustained a minor injury while attempting to punch the ball clear.
6’ – Bhutan on the Front Foot:
Bhutan earned a corner of their own, leading to a dangerous moment in Pakistan’s box. The pressure mounted on the Shaheens as Bhutan began to assert control, keeping possession high up the pitch.
10’ – Bhutan Controls Midfield:
Bhutan settled into the game, controlling the midfield and looking to exploit spaces between Pakistan’s lines. They began dictating the tempo as Pakistan regrouped.
11’ – Pakistan Regains Control:
After a brief lull, Pakistan regained possession, particularly when Bhutan squandered a free kick near the halfway line, allowing Pakistan to regroup and push forward.
12’ – Missed Opportunity for Pakistan:
Pakistan tried to advance up the pitch, but the final pass lacked precision as the ball rolled out for a goal kick.
15’ – Talha’s Cross Cleared:
Muhammad Talha, operating within the 18-yard box, attempted to cross the ball, but a Bhutan defender was alert, clearing the danger. Talha, who scored the winning goal against Nepal, was closely watched by Bhutan’s backline.
16’ – Ubaid’s Free Kick:
Captain Ubaid took a free kick from about 39 yards out, but nothing came of it as the ball was easily cleared.
27’ – Pakistan Responds:
After a disjointed spell, Pakistan began turning up the intensity, applying pressure and looking to find an equalizer after Bhutan had taken the lead during the stream disruption.
32’ – Relentless Pressure:
Pakistan bombarded Bhutan’s defense with wave after wave of attack, but Bhutan held firm, clearing every cross and intercepting every pass.
34’ – Double Attempt Denied:
Pakistan came close to equalizing with two golden chances. Subhan Kareem had a shot on target, saved brilliantly by the Bhutanese keeper. Moments later, Abdul Rehman struck from close range, only to be denied again. Pakistan was unlucky to not be on the scoresheet.
36’ – Equalizer from Khobaib Khan!
Khobaib Khan leveled the score for Pakistan with a sensational strike from just outside the 18-yard box. Showing remarkable composure, he picked his spot and delivered a stunning effort into the right corner. The momentum shifted to Pakistan as they pushed for a lead.
44’ – Ubaid’s Dangerous Free Kick:
Ubaid sent a free kick into Bhutan’s territory, creating a moment of danger, but Bhutan held their ground, avoiding further damage.
45+3’ – Half-Time:
Pakistan dominated the final stages of the half, pressing Bhutan back into their own half. The teams went into the break at 1-1, with Pakistan’s resurgence setting the stage for a gripping second half.
Second Half
46’ – Fast Start for Pakistan:
The second half began with Bhutan losing possession immediately, allowing Pakistan to storm into their half. The pressure was mounting, and Pakistan capitalized almost immediately.
47’ – Subhan Kareem Strikes Again!
Subhan Kareem put Pakistan ahead with a well-placed strike from the right edge of the box. His effort curled past the Bhutanese keeper, sending Pakistan into the lead and their fans into a frenzy.
53’ – Pakistan Dominates Possession:
Pakistan continued to dictate play, maintaining possession and creating several chances. A header from Pakistan missed the target, but their intent was clear as they pushed for a third goal.
54’ – Kashif’s Heroic Save:
Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Kashif, produced a spectacular one-handed save to deny Bhutan from a well-struck free kick. The subsequent corner amounted to nothing for Bhutan.
58’ – Pakistan on the Attack Again:
Subhan Kareem nearly added to his tally, advancing into Bhutan’s box, but the Bhutanese defense held firm and cleared the danger in a desperate scramble.
60’ – Majid Ali Loses Control:
Pakistan’s Majid Ali dribbled into a dangerous area near the Bhutan box but lost possession at the critical moment.
67’ – Sharaf Khan Makes it 3-1!
Sharaf Khan added a third goal for Pakistan with a superb low strike from the edge of the box. He slid the ball past the Bhutanese keeper to give Pakistan a commanding lead.
73’ – Pakistan in Control:
With a two-goal cushion, Pakistan slowed the tempo, confidently managing the game as Bhutan struggled to regain a foothold.
84’ – Kashif to the Rescue Again:
Another free kick for Bhutan, just outside the 18-yard box, saw Kashif dive to his left and make another crucial save. The young keeper was having a standout performance.
88’ – Bhutan Pulls One Back:
Just as Pakistan seemed comfortable, Bhutan scored from a cross on the left side, with the ball slipping into the far post. The goal gave Bhutan renewed hope.
90+6’ – Bhutan’s Penalty Drama – Equalizer!
In a moment of late drama, Bhutan was awarded a penalty after a handball inside Pakistan’s box. Tension gripped the stadium as Kashif prepared for the spot-kick. Despite his best efforts, Bhutan converted, leveling the game at 3-3. A remarkable comeback from the visitors.
Final Whistle:
Full-Time: Pakistan 3-3 Bhutan
Conclusion: This match had everything – drama, stunning goals, last-minute heroics, and heartbreak. Pakistan looked in control for large periods, especially after Sharaf Khan’s third goal, but Bhutan’s never-say-die attitude saw them claw back into the game. While Pakistan will be disappointed with the draw, Bhutan will celebrate a hard-earned point. Football, as always, remains the game of unpredictability.