LAHORE: Pakistan’s under-16 football team made history by stepping onto the pitch at the BIIK Sports Complex for their opening match of the UEFA Under-16 Development Tournament in Kazakhstan. Although the result was not in their favour — a 4-1 defeat to hosts Kazakhstan — the occasion marked a significant milestone for the country’s next generation of footballers.
Head coach Mohammed Essa praised the opportunity despite the loss. “This is a learning experience for the team since it is the first time that a Pakistan side is playing in a UEFA competition. It was the first game for the team here and I think we did well after a tough first half,” he said.
Kazakhstan raced to a 4-0 lead by half-time, with goals from Platon Shipstin (penalty, 7th minute), Anuar Tolendi (21st), captain David Zarechnyy (30th), and Daniyar Kassi (injury-time header).
Pakistan regrouped after the break and showed resilience. Captain Abdul Samad pulled one back with a powerful header from a precise cross by Muhammad Hanzala. Substitute Danish Masih also came close twice, reflecting the team’s improved second-half performance.
Skipper Abdul Samad acknowledged the setback but remained positive: “It wasn’t the result that we wanted, but we will take our learnings from this match and come out stronger and better in the second match.”
Pakistan next face Russia on Monday. Encouraged by their spirited second-half display, the team hopes to build on the experience and deliver a stronger performance.
“This debut in a UEFA competition represents a new frontier for Pakistan’s youth football, offering invaluable exposure and lessons that could shape the future of the national game.”
