Pakistan, India into SAFF U-17 semis

An action-packed moment from the match between Pakistan and the Maldives

By Susil Premalal

Pakistan and India qualified for the semi-finals of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup 2025 Under-17 Football Tournament, which continued yesterday at the Racecourse Grounds.

The tournament, organised by SAFF with the participation of seven regional nations, will run until September 27.

In Group ‘B’ first-round matches held yesterday, Pakistan secured their semi-final spot by defeating the Maldives 5–2, while defending champions India overcame Bhutan 1–0 to advance as well. 

Pakistan dominated the first half against the Maldives, leading 4–1 at the interval. Mansoor Ahmed was the star for Pakistan, netting a brilliant hat-trick, including a penalty, while Mohemmad Abdullah added two more goals, one of them from the spot. For the Maldives, Ali Ilaas and Mohamed Shayan scored a goal apiece.

The clash between India and Bhutan was a tight contest, with neither side managing to score in the first half. Bhutan impressed by holding their ground against the powerful Indian team and showing unexpected resilience. M. Ahmed eventually netted the match-winning goal for India, ensuring their place in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, in the final Group ‘A’ first-round match, hosts Sri Lanka will face Bangladesh tomorrow (21) at 7.00 PM under lights. Sri Lanka, who were beaten 2–0 by Nepal earlier, must defeat Bangladesh by at least 1–0 to qualify for the semi-finals.