Baku, Azerbaijan: Pakistan produced a dominant attacking performance to defeat Tonga 6-1 at the FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival 2026 in Azerbaijan, with Kaleemullah scoring four goals in a remarkable individual display.
The Shaheens found themselves behind in the sixth minute after Tonga were awarded a penalty in a decision that came against the run of play. However, the setback proved short-lived as Pakistan quickly took control and went on to dominate the contest.
Kaleemullah levelled the score from the penalty spot in the seventh minute before putting Pakistan ahead in the 13th minute. A cross from the right found the forward in space, and he made no mistake with a simple header.
Pakistan continued to press, creating chances and keeping Tonga pinned back. Kaleemullah completed his hat-trick with another penalty in first-half stoppage time to give the Shaheens the advantage.
Pakistan continued to attack with intent, and Kaleemullah added his fourth goal of the match when a kick-in from the left found him at the far post. He rose above the defence to head home, further extending Pakistan’s lead.
Maqbool added another with a thunderous strike from distance that gave the goalkeeper no chance, before Mustafa completed the scoring with a composed, well-placed finish following a move down the left.
Chances continued to come for Pakistan, who could easily have added further goals to their tally. Their attacking movement, sustained pressure and clinical finishing ensured a comprehensive victory after the early scare.
Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani was present at the match and encouraged the squad before kick-off, urging the players to play their hearts out. Following the final whistle, he congratulated the entire squad on becoming the first-ever Pakistani team to record a victory on the FIFA World Cup stage.
President Gilani also paid tribute to the team management and coaching staff for their efforts in preparing the players for the tournament. He highlighted the valuable opportunities available to this generation of footballers, who are gaining experience by competing against teams from different regions of the world. He expressed hope that, God willing, many more such opportunities would come their way as they continue their footballing journeys.
Pakistan now face Nepal in Round of 16 of Tier F later today at 4:45pm PKT.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.