Pakistan U17 beat Laos 3-0 to keep Asian Cup Qualification hopes alive
Muhammad Essa scores twice as Young Shaheens defeat hosts Laos to move level on points with Iran in Group D
Usama Manj
Producer, Correspondent
Usama Manj is an experienced multimedia journalist with over 8 years in the industry. He began his career at Express News before moving on to Indus News as news producer and then worked for Aik News as a sports producer and anchor.
The victory takes Pakistan to six points from three matches in Group D, putting them level with Iran, who have a game in hand.
Pakistan's Under-17 football team defeated hosts Laos 3-0 on Saturday to strengthen their hopes of qualifying for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2027.
The Young Shaheens scored all three goals in the first half at the New Laos National Stadium in Vientiane, securing their second victory in the Group D qualifying campaign.
Muhammad Essa starred with a brace, while Hazrat Abbas also got on the scoresheet to complete a convincing performance by Pakistan.
Essa leads Pakistan's attacking display
Pakistan took the lead in the 14th minute when Abdul Samad delivered a free kick from the left, allowing Essa to score with a looping header over Laos goalkeeper Sankham Thavithong.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 27th minute. Muhammad Moosa beat two defenders before delivering a cross that Hazrat Abbas headed into the net.
Essa completed his brace in the 45th minute, once again benefiting from Samad's delivery to give Pakistan a commanding three-goal lead before halftime.
Laos attempted to respond after the break but struggled to find a way past Pakistan's defense.
Goalkeeper Samar Razzaq also played an important role in preserving the clean sheet, denying Phonesavanh Khonephachit in a one-on-one situation before producing another save against Sisombat Vilaysone.
Pakistan face crucial Jordan test
The victory takes Pakistan to six points from three matches in Group D, putting them level with Iran, who have a game in hand.
Pakistan opened their qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Sri Lanka before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat against Iran.
With only the group winners securing direct qualification for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2027, Pakistan's final group fixture against Jordan on November 20 will be crucial.
The Young Shaheens will need another strong performance to maintain their hopes of reaching the continental tournament in Uzbekistan.
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