Hammad’s Stunner Inspires Pakistan’s Comeback Win Against Sri Lanka

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Pakistan made a flying start to their AFC Under-17 Championship 2027 qualifying campaign, defeating Sri Lanka 3-1 in their Group D opening match on Sunday after producing an impressive second-half comeback.

Pakistan dominated the early stages and created several scoring opportunities but were unable to find the net. Sri Lankan goalkeeper Imadh Mohamed Shareeq made a series of important saves to deny Pakistan’s attacking players, including Hazrat Abbas and captain Abdul Samad.

Despite Pakistan’s attacking pressure, Sri Lanka took the lead against the run of play when Ndarsha Denuvan capitalised on a defensive mistake and scored on a counterattack.

Pakistan continued to push forward after conceding, with Muhammad Rafay also coming close to scoring, but Sri Lanka maintained their 1-0 advantage until half-time.

The Green Shirts returned with renewed determination after the break and eventually found the equaliser in the 56th minute. Muhammad Moosa, who came on as a half-time substitute, forced another excellent save from the Sri Lankan goalkeeper, leading to a series of corner kicks.

Following the resulting pressure, Muhammad Hammad produced a spectacular scissors kick to send the ball into the net and bring Pakistan level at 1-1.

The equaliser lifted Pakistan’s confidence, and they continued their attacking approach. Moosa subsequently put Pakistan ahead with an excellent finish after making a dangerous run from the right flank.

Hazrat Abbas extended the lead to 3-1 with a superbly timed header, converting a cross from the left to put the result beyond Sri Lanka’s reach.

Pakistan found the net once more in the closing stages, but Moosa’s effort was ruled offside.

The convincing victory gives Pakistan three valuable points and a positive start to their qualifying campaign. The team will now turn its attention to its next Group D encounter against Iran, carrying significant momentum from the opening win.