Pakistan fall after bright start

Pakistan suffered a 4-2 defeat against Gambia in their opening match of the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 in Baku, surrendering an early two-goal advantage after a dramatic second-half comeback by their opponents.

Shaheens made an impressive start, scoring the tournament's opening two goals to put Gambia under pressure.

Ameer Hamza opened the scoring in the fifth minute, collecting the ball on the right near halfway before driving towards the Gambian defence and unleashing a powerful strike past the goalkeeper.

Hamza then helped create Pakistan's second goal, winning a tackle that sent the ball towards Baxi Hamal Khan. Advancing from the left, Baxi produced a superb finish into the top corner to double Pakistan's lead.

Gambia responded before half-time, reducing the deficit and shifting the momentum ahead of the interval.

The African side carried that momentum into the second half, equalising early after the ball slipped past Pakistan goalkeeper Shayan. Gambia continued to press, forcing Pakistan to defend deep as they sought to regain control of the contest.

Pakistan gradually settled and began creating opportunities of their own. Kaleemullah tested the Gambian goalkeeper repeatedly, forcing several saves as the Shaheens attempted to restore their advantage.

However, Gambia struck again on a swift counter-attack, with a player collecting the ball before firing a powerful left-footed effort into the corner to put his side ahead.

The comeback was completed when Gambia added a fourth goal with a curling strike into the top corner, sealing a 4-2 victory after trailing by two goals.

Despite the defeat, Pakistan's opening performance offered encouragement, particularly through the attacking contributions of Hamza and Baxi, whose goals showcased the team's ability to compete on the international stage.