Pakistan’s Under-19 football team clinched a thrilling victory against host nation Nepal in the SAFF Under-19 Football Championship, starting their campaign with a strong 1-0 win.
This triumph marks the end of a 12-year victory drought for Pakistan in international matches, with their last U19 international win dating back to 2011 against India’s U19 team.
The decisive goal, securing the win, was skillfully scored by Ali Zafar in the 76th minute, igniting celebrations among the Pakistani team and their enthusiastic supporters.
Pakistan’s goalkeeper played a crucial role in the victory, displaying exceptional skill and composure under pressure by thwarting numerous relentless attacks from the Nepalese side.
The tournament is being held at the iconic Dashrath Stadium in Kathmandu. Pakistan’s next challenge will be against Maldives on September 23, at the same venue.
The 2023 SAFF U-19 Championship, organized by the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), is the fifth edition of this international football competition for men’s under-19 national teams, scheduled from September 21 to September 30, with India as the defending champion.