DHAKA: Pakistan’s men’s national football team has made a remarkable return to the semifinals of the SAFF Championship 2026, ending an eight-year wait and reigniting excitement among football fans across the country.
The Green Shirts secured their place in the last four after recovering from a narrow defeat against India’s Under-23 side with an impressive 3-0 victory over the Maldives. The convincing win highlighted Pakistan’s growing confidence and attacking strength under head coach Nolberto Solano.
Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) forward Najeebullah emerged as one of Pakistan’s standout performers, scoring twice against the Maldives and taking his tournament tally to three goals in two matches. Since making his international debut earlier this year, the forward has demonstrated impressive composure, awareness and attacking ability.
Najeebullah had already attracted attention during the National Challenge Cup 2026 in February, particularly after producing an outstanding goal against Mamsons FC. His performances in the SAFF Championship have further strengthened his reputation as an emerging talent in Pakistani football.
In Group A, India finished unbeaten at the top, while Pakistan secured second place to qualify for the semifinals. Bangladesh dominated Group B by winning both of their group-stage matches, while Bhutan progressed after drawing against Sri Lanka and benefiting from a superior goals-conceded record.
Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the second semifinal on Saturday, while India will meet Bhutan in the other last-four encounter.
The challenge against Bangladesh is expected to be particularly demanding for Solano’s side. The hosts entered the competition among the favourites and will enjoy considerable home support. Their supporters are also eagerly anticipating the opportunity to watch Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury in action.
Despite being considered the tournament’s dark horses, Pakistan have delivered encouraging performances. Their two stoppage-time goals against India generated considerable attention on social media, while their set-piece execution proved particularly effective against the Maldives.
Pakistan have also received a significant boost with the arrival of five diaspora players. Defenders Abdullah Iqbal and Easah Suliman, midfielder Adil Nabi, and attacking options Abdul Samad Arshad and Ali Akbar Khan have added further depth to the squad.
Solano, the former Newcastle United midfielder from Peru, has expressed optimism about his team’s progress and potential as they prepare for the semifinal challenge.
Pakistan’s impressive campaign has once again brought football supporters together, following the national team’s historic Four-Nation Cup triumph. Social media discussions, particularly across northern Pakistan, have reflected growing enthusiasm, with fans actively debating the team’s chances and celebrating its progress.
Football observers believe the renewed interest is an encouraging development for the sport in Pakistan. The team’s semifinal qualification could provide a valuable platform for emerging players and inspire a new generation to pursue football professionally.
