(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)

Pakistan Held to Goalless Draw by Bangladesh in Diamond Jubilee Football Tournament Opener

Pakistan’s men’s football team began their Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament campaign with a 0-0 draw against Bangladesh in Malé, a result that reflected a tightly contested match despite Pakistan playing against a reduced opposition in the second half.

Bangladesh fielded their Olympic squad, a young side being used for international experience, while Pakistan entered the match with a senior squad that included several debutants and returning players.

Pakistan were dealt an early setback when midfielder Rahis Nabi was forced off due to injury within the opening 15 minutes. Despite this, both sides created limited chances in a cautious first half, with Pakistan goalkeeper Yousuf Butt making a key save to keep the score level.

After the break, Pakistan introduced several attacking substitutions in an effort to increase pressure. One of the best opportunities came in the 57th minute when Alamgir Ghazi’s long-range attempt struck the post.

The match shifted in Pakistan’s favour in the 62nd minute when Bangladesh were reduced to ten men following a red card to their captain. Pakistan pushed forward in search of a winning goal but were unable to convert their chances.

Substitute Ali Haider Shah came close in the 66th minute, while late attempts in stoppage time were also denied by the Bangladesh goalkeeper, who produced several important saves to secure a draw for his team.

Despite sustained attacking pressure in the final stages, Pakistan could not break the deadlock and had to settle for a point.

Pakistan will next face Maldives in their second group match, followed by a fixture against Afghanistan as the tournament continues. The top two teams from the group will advance to the final.