Gambia maintained the pressure, forcing Pakistan to defend deep as they attempted to regain control of the match.

Pakistan suffered a 4-2 defeat against Gambia in their opening match of the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 in Baku, surrendering an early two-goal lead after a strong second-half comeback by their opponents.

The Shaheens made an impressive start, scoring the tournament’s opening two goals and putting Gambia under immediate pressure.

Ameer Hamza opened the scoring in the fifth minute after collecting the ball on the right near halfway, driving towards the Gambian defence and firing a powerful shot past the goalkeeper.

Hamza then played a key role in Pakistan’s second goal, winning a tackle that sent the ball towards Baxi Hamal Khan. Advancing from the left, Baxi finished brilliantly into the top corner to double Pakistan’s advantage.

Gambia Fight Back Before Half-Time

Gambia responded before the interval, reducing the deficit and shifting the momentum heading into the second half.

The African side continued their comeback after the restart, equalising early when the ball slipped past Pakistan goalkeeper Shayan.

Gambia maintained the pressure, forcing Pakistan to defend deep as they attempted to regain control of the match.

Pakistan gradually settled and created opportunities of their own. Kaleemullah tested the Gambian goalkeeper several times, forcing a series of saves as the Shaheens looked to restore their lead.

Second-Half Comeback Seals Gambia Victory

Despite Pakistan’s efforts, Gambia took the lead through a swift counter-attack. A Gambian player collected the ball and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot into the corner to make it 3-2.

Gambia then completed the comeback with a curling effort into the top corner, securing a 4-2 victory after initially falling two goals behind.

Although Pakistan were unable to hold on to their early advantage, the opening performance offered some encouragement, particularly through the attacking contributions of Hamza and Baxi, whose goals highlighted the team’s potential on the international stage.