Pakistan Thrash Maldives 3-0 to Move Closer to Semi-Final Qualification

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Pakistan delivered an impressive performance to defeat the Maldives 3-0, moving a step closer to securing a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.

McKeal Abdullah opened the scoring from the penalty spot, while Najeebullah Bettani struck twice to put Pakistan firmly in control. All three goals came in the first half as the Green Shirts dominated the contest.

Najeebullah doubled Pakistan’s advantage with a well-executed finish after Junaid Shah delivered an excellent cross from the left flank. Making a perfectly timed run into the penalty area, Najeebullah got ahead of his marker and calmly guided the ball into the net.

The forward then completed his brace with a brilliant individual effort. After Pakistan cleared the ball from deep inside their own half, Najeebullah controlled it on the right side before unleashing a powerful shot that left the Maldivian goalkeeper with no chance.

Although the Maldives enjoyed slightly more possession, they struggled to create meaningful scoring opportunities. Pakistan proved more dangerous in attack, registering 15 shots, including five on target, compared to the Maldives’ seven attempts, with only one testing the Pakistani goalkeeper.

Both teams looked for additional goals after the interval, but neither managed to find the net as the second half ended without a score.

The 3-0 victory has significantly strengthened Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals. However, the national side must await the outcome of the remaining Group match between the Maldives and India to confirm qualification.

The Maldives now face a difficult task, as they must defeat India by a substantial margin to overtake Pakistan in the standings. Otherwise, Pakistan and India will advance to the last four.