Pakistan to face BD in SAFF U17 Championship semifinal tomorrow [The News]

LAHORE: The stage is set for the semi-finals of the SAFF U-17 Championship 2025 in Sri Lanka, with Pakistan scheduled to take on Bangladesh in the first semi-final on Thursday (tomorrow).

Later in the day, India will face Nepal in the second semi-final, rounding off a competitive group stage that saw high drama and emerging talent.

Pakistan’s path to the knockout round came despite a narrow 3-2 defeat to India in the group stage. The match, played with intensity and flair, saw India take the lead in the 31st minute through Dallalmuon Gangte. Pakistan responded with composure, equalizing via a penalty converted by Muhammad Abdullah in the 43rd minute.

The second half saw India regain control, with Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam scoring in the 63rd minute and Rehan Ahmed adding a third in the 73rd. Pakistan’s Hamza Yasir pulled one back in the 70th minute, but India held firm to secure the win.

Despite the loss, Pakistan’s attacking intent and resilience have earned them a spot in the semi-finals, where they will look to regroup and challenge Bangladesh for a place in the final.

With Abdullah and Yasir showing promise up front, and the team gaining valuable experience from the group stage, the semi-final promises to be a compelling contest.

Published in The News, 24 September 2025