Pakistan stun Iran in dramatic final to clinch Asian U16 Volleyball title

Tournament Record: Undefeated run, including a decisive semi-final victory over India

By DTD- On Jul 19, 2025

NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Pakistan’s Under-16 men’s volleyball team pulled off a remarkable victory on Saturday, defeating defending champions Iran in a dramatic final to win the 2025 Asian Men’s U16 Volleyball Championship in Thailand. The win marks a historic moment, as Pakistan clinched its first-ever Asian U16 title in volleyball.

After losing the first two sets 22–25 and 21–25, the Pakistani team mounted a stunning comeback, winning the next three sets 30–28, 25–21, and 15–10 to seal the match with a thrilling 3–2 scoreline.

Standout performances came from Muhammad Junaid, who scored 28 points, and Faizan Ullah, who added 22 points. Their efforts were bolstered by consistent play from Talha and Muhammad Irfan, helping to turn the tide in Pakistan’s favor during the high-pressure moments of the match.

Pakistan’s path to the final was equally impressive, with undefeated victories against South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Chinese Taipei. In the semi-final, Pakistan delivered a dominant straight-sets win over arch-rivals India with scores of 25–16, 25–19, and 25–12.

This championship triumph also secures Pakistan’s qualification for the 2026 FIVB U-17 World Championship, a significant achievement for the country’s volleyball development at the youth level.

Match Summary

Final Score (Sets): 22–25, 21–25, 30–28, 25–21, 15–10
Top Scorers: Muhammad Junaid – 28 pts, Faizan Ullah – 22 pts
Tournament Record: Undefeated run, including a decisive semi-final victory over India

The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF), sports fans, and analysts have celebrated the victory as a defining moment for the country’s sports scene. This win is widely seen as a turning point in Pakistan’s journey to becoming a competitive force in international volleyball.

The team’s success reflects the emergence of a new generation of talented athletes whose resilience, discipline, and passion are shaping the future of Pakistani sports.