DHAKA: Pakistan reached their first SAFF Championship final on Saturday after Abdul Samad Arshad scored a late winner in a 1-0 semi-final victory over hosts Bangladesh.
The Denmark-based forward broke the deadlock with around five minutes of regulation time remaining at the National Stadium in Dhaka.
Samad collected the ball on the right flank and created space with quick footwork. He then fired a left-footed shot past Bangladesh goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon. The goal secured Pakistan’s place in Tuesday’s final against defending champions India.
Bangladesh controlled much of the possession, holding an estimated 62% to 64% of the ball. However, Pakistan created more scoring opportunities and registered more shots on target.
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Coach Nolberto Solano’s side defended firmly against sustained pressure from the hosts. Bangladesh had entered the semi-final unbeaten after topping Group A with victories over Bhutan and Sri Lanka. The hosts pushed forward after conceding but failed to find an equaliser.
A flare thrown onto the pitch from the stands briefly interrupted play before Pakistan completed the victory. Pakistan had previously reached the SAFF Championship semi-finals on four occasions without advancing further.
Solano’s team entered the knockout stage as Group B runners-up. Pakistan lost their opening match 3-2 to India before recovering with a 3-0 victory over the Maldives.
Several overseas-based players, including Samad, joined the squad for the knockout rounds. Earlier group matches had taken place outside the FIFA international window.
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India secured their final berth with a 2-1 semi-final victory over Bhutan. Pakistan will face India on Tuesday, November 17, with both teams competing for the regional title.
