Pakistan delivered a determined performance but suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Iran in their 2027 AFC Under-17 Championship Group D qualifying match at the Laos National Stadium on Wednesday.
Despite conceding an early goal, Pakistan remained competitive throughout the contest, creating several scoring opportunities and putting sustained pressure on their opponents in search of an equaliser.
Iran took the lead in the ninth minute when Amir Mohamed Zarei completed an attacking move down Pakistan’s right flank, putting his side ahead early in the match.
However, Muhammad Habib’s team responded positively and gradually established an attacking rhythm.
Nadeem Hussain came close to equalising when he directed a header from a corner straight at the Iranian goalkeeper, following an impressive piece of skill by Hasnain Ali on the left flank.
Pakistan continued to threaten through Muhammad Essa, whose pace and attacking runs created problems for Iran’s defence on the right, while Hasnain remained influential on the opposite wing.
Goalkeeper Samar Razzaq produced an outstanding save in first-half stoppage time to prevent Iran from extending their advantage and keep Pakistan firmly in contention.
Pakistan emerged after the interval with renewed attacking intent, repeatedly pushing forward in an effort to level the score.
Hazrat Abbas had one of the clearest opportunities of the match but was unable to convert a one-on-one chance against the Iranian goalkeeper.
As the contest entered its final stages, Pakistan maintained their attacking pressure, with Haris Khan introduced late to provide additional options in the final third.
The Green-shirts were left frustrated in the 89th minute when they believed the ball had crossed the goal line, but the referee ruled that no goal had been scored.
Despite their sustained efforts, Pakistan could not find the equaliser, allowing Iran to secure a narrow victory.
Pakistan had opened their qualifying campaign with a 3-1 win over Sri Lanka and will now look to recover from Wednesday’s setback when they face hosts Laos in their third Group D fixture on Saturday.
The upcoming encounter will provide Pakistan with an opportunity to return to winning ways as they continue their bid to qualify for the 2027 AFC Under-17 Championship.