Pakistan names U-17 squad for SAFF Championship in Sri Lanka

 

Young guns ready for regional challenge

Asher Butt

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced its 23-member squad for the SAFF U-17 Championship 2025, set to take place in Sri Lanka from September 15–27. The tournament is being viewed as an important step in Pakistan’s youth football development, giving young players a platform to test their skills against South Asia’s best.

Tactical approach and coach’s vision

Head Coach Syed Nasir Ismail has emphasized a blend of tactical versatility, midfield depth, and attacking flexibility in his squad selection. His focus is clear: develop players who are technically sound, positionally aware, and capable of adapting to modern football’s fast-changing demands.

“This squad reflects our emphasis on midfield balance and attacking adaptability,” Coach Ismail said. “The inclusion of emerging talents like Hamza Yasir and Mustafa Israr shows our commitment to nurturing the future of Pakistan football.”

Squad composition

• Goalkeepers (3): Samar Razzaq, Khalil Jibran, Adil Ali Khan

• Defenders (7): Nadeem Hussain, Muhammad Alam, Muhammad Masood, Muhammad Zubair, Shahid Anjum, Aabiss Raza, Azizullah

• Midfielders (7): Mustafa Israr, Abdul Samad, Ibrahim Asif, Muhammad Talha, Haroon Rasheed, Muhammad Essa, Saad Tiwana

• Forwards (6): Muhammad Abdullah, Mansoor Ahmed, Hasnain Wali Raza, Muhammad Owais, Hamza Yasir, Syed Shahram

The selection reflects flexibility, with several players capable of shifting between roles as per match requirements.

Group B challenge

Pakistan has been placed in Group B alongside India, Maldives, and Bhutan — a tough pool that will demand both skill and mental strength.

• India: The regional powerhouse with structured youth development.

• Maldives: Rapidly improving with fresh investment in football.

• Bhutan: Often underestimated but known for resilience and discipline.

Pakistan’s fixtures

• September 16: Pakistan vs Bhutan

• September 19: Pakistan vs Maldives

• September 22: Pakistan vs India

The opener against Bhutan offers Pakistan a chance to settle early, while the Maldives clash could prove decisive. The India game, regardless of circumstances, will be the ultimate test of progress.

Beyond results: Development first

While fans will hope for victories, the PFF and coaching staff are prioritizing long-term player development. Competing against regional rivals provides Pakistani players exposure to varied styles, tactical systems, and the pressure of tournament football — all crucial for growth.

This tournament also highlights the need for investment in Pakistan’s football infrastructure, coaching programs, and grassroots initiatives. Success here could inspire more support for youth football in a country where cricket traditionally dominates.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s journey in the SAFF U-17 Championship isn’t just about chasing silverware; it’s about laying foundations for the future. With a balanced squad, emerging talent, and a development-focused coach, the young Green Shirts are ready to showcase their passion and potential on the Sri Lankan stage.

As the countdown to the opening match begins, all eyes will be on how this young squad embraces the challenge — and whether they can turn promise into progress for Pakistan football.