Vientiane, 11 November, 2026 (Nosheen): Pakistan suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Iran in their second Group D fixture of the 2027 AFC Under-17 Asian Cup qualifiers at the Laos National Stadium on Wednesday, despite delivering a spirited performance and creating several opportunities to level the score. Iran took an early lead in the ninth minute through Amir Mohamed Zarei, who converted an attack from Pakistan’s right flank. Pakistan responded strongly, with Nadeem Hussain coming close to scoring through a header from a corner after an impressive individual effort by Hasnain Ali. Muhammad Essa also threatened Iran’s defence with his pace and attacking runs on the right, while Hasnain Ali continued to create opportunities from the opposite flank. Goalkeeper Samar Razzaq kept Pakistan in contention with an excellent save during first-half stoppage time. The Green-shirts increased their attacking pressure after the interval, searching for an equaliser, while Hazrat Abbas came close to scoring but failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity. Pakistan continued their efforts in the closing stages, with Haris Khan introduced as a late attacking substitute. However, controversy erupted in the 89th minute when Pakistan believed the ball had crossed the goal line, but the referee did not award a goal. Despite their determined efforts, Pakistan were unable to find an equaliser and suffered their first defeat of the qualifying campaign. Pakistan had begun their Group D campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Sri Lanka and will now face tournament hosts Laos in their third fixture on Saturday, aiming to bounce back and strengthen their qualification hopes.