Pakistan Crush Laos 3-0 in AFC U-17 Qualifiers

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Pakistan U-17 football team thrashed hosts Laos 3-0 in their third Group D fixture of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers at the Laos National Stadium on Saturday.

Muhammad Essa scored twice, while Hazrat Abbas netted once as Pakistan secured their second victory in three matches under head coach Mohammad Habib.

The Green Shirts made a strong start and broke the deadlock in the 14th minute. Hasnain Ali delivered an impressive cross from the left flank, which Muhammad Essa converted with a well-placed header to put Pakistan ahead.

Laos attempted to respond, but goalkeeper Samar Razzaq produced an important save to deny the hosts an equaliser. Muhammad Hammad also played a crucial role, clearing a dangerous effort off the goal line to preserve Pakistan’s advantage.

Pakistan extended their lead in the 29th minute when Hazrat Abbas rose above the defence to powerfully head home a cross from the left.

The visitors struck again just before the interval. Captain Abdul Samad provided an excellent delivery, which Essa finished with a first-time effort to complete his brace and put Pakistan firmly in control at 3-0.

Laos increased the pressure after the break and created several opportunities to reduce the deficit. However, Samar Razzaq remained alert between the posts, making a series of impressive saves to ensure Pakistan maintained their clean sheet.

Pakistan’s defence also stood firm, with Hammad producing another vital goal-line clearance to frustrate the home side.

The Green Shirts continued to threaten through counter-attacks in the second half. Substitute Haris Khan made a promising run down the right wing, but Khalilullah was unable to convert the opportunity into another goal.

Despite missing a few additional chances, Pakistan comfortably protected their three-goal advantage until the final whistle.

Pakistan had earlier registered a 3-1 victory over Sri Lanka before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat against Iran.

With two wins from three outings, Pakistan will now turn their attention to their final Group D encounter against Jordan, scheduled for November 20.

A victory against Jordan could further boost Pakistan’s chances of securing qualification for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027.