Pakistan storm into SAFF U-15 semi-finals [The News]

Pakistan storm into SAFF U-15 semi-finals [The News]

KARACHI: Pakistan’s colts blasted their way into the semi-finals after inflicting a crushing 4-0 defeat on Bhutan thanks to Moin Ahmed’s double in their Group B last round match of the SAFF Under-15 Championship in Kathmandu on Saturday.

Pakistan, who had beaten arch-rivals India 2-1 in their previous outing, continued to play with the same spirit against a weaker side.

Mudassar Nazar put Pakistan ahead in the 20th minute. Three minutes later, Pakistan doubled their lead through Iftikhar Ahmed who landed a sublime goal to add to the misery of the opposition. It was then the turn of Moin who hit a double to take Pakistan’s lead to 4-0 by scoring in the 29th and 42nd minute.

In the second half, Pakistan maintained pressure and got a penalty but Adnan Justin Gill failed to convert it.

Pakistan team is being coached by Brazilian Jose Portella.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh demolished Maldives 9-0 to qualify for the last-four stage from Group A.

Hosts Nepal have also made it to the semi-finals from this group.

Both Nepal and Bangladesh have beaten Maldives and they will now fight for the group champions spot on Monday (tomorrow).

Published in The News, 28 October 2018