Pakistan's SAFF U-17 Championship journey ends in semi-final defeat to Bangladesh

KARACHI:

Pakistan's journey in the 2024 SAFF Under-17 Championship came to an end in the semi-final after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Bangladesh, with a score of 8-7. The match was held in Thimphu, Bhutan, where seven South Asian nations are competing in the event.

Pakistan took an early lead in the 32nd minute, thanks to a brilliant goal by Mohammad Shahab Ahmed. The advantage was doubled in the 62nd minute when Abdur Rahman successfully converted a penalty, putting Pakistan ahead 2-0.

However, Bangladesh mounted a comeback, scoring in the 74th and 94th minutes to level the game at 2-2, pushing the contest into a penalty shootout.

At one point, the shootout was tied 7-7, but Pakistan missed their 8th penalty, allowing Bangladesh to secure the victory by converting their final attempt.

The final will be played on Monday between defending champions India and Bangladesh, after India triumphed over Nepal in the second semi-final.