Iraq Dominates Pakistan in AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifier

PHNOM PENH: In the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, Iraq showcased their dominance against Pakistan with an 8-1 victory. Ali Jasim distinguished himself by scoring a hat-trick at the Olympic Stadium on Wednesday.

Pakistan’s campaign got off to a rocky beginning when Mohibullah Afridi received a red card just 30 minutes into the match. Shortly thereafter, Iraq was granted a penalty due to a foul by Pakistan, which they successfully executed, taking an early lead.

The score remained 1-0 in Iraq’s advantage until halftime. After the intermission, Jasim scored again in the 48th minute, increasing Iraq’s lead.

Pakistan responded when McKeal Abdullah made a penalty kick, narrowing the score gap.

However, Iraq initiated a powerful offensive, scoring six additional goals in the final 27 minutes, securing a decisive 8-1 win against Pakistan.

This significant win places Iraq at the forefront of Group G with three points and a substantial goal difference, while Pakistan finds itself at the bottom.

The Green Shirts are scheduled to play Cambodia on September 6, followed by a match against Chinese Taipei on September 9 to conclude the group stage.

It is important to note that the top teams from each group, along with the four best second-place teams, will proceed to the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, to be hosted by Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan Squad for U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers:
  • Goalkeepers: Adam Najeeb, Hassan Ali, Umair Arooj
  • Defenders: Haseeb Khan, Mohib Ullah, Muhammad Adeel, Ans Amin, Muhammad Haroon, Hamza Munir, Ahmed Salman, Junaid Shah, Abdul Rehman
  • Midfielders: Tufail Khan, Hayyaan Khattak, Muhammad Junaid, Ali Zafar, Adnan Justin
  • Forwards: Mckeal Abdullah, Umair Bahader, Furqan Umer, Ali Raza, Suleman Ali, Adeel Younas