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| Zesh Rehman |
Pakistan started their campaign in style when they defeated Sri Lanka by a solitary goal on the opening day of the 6th South Asian Football Federation (SAAF) Championship at the People’s Sports Complex here on Wednesday evening.
The match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was completely dominated by the hosts as the visitors looked out of touch. The home team got many opportunities but the poor finishing by the forward line failed to convert them.
The presence of English Premier Club Fulham’s defender Zesh Rehman proved to be a real tonic for Pakistan. Seven minutes before the end of the first half, Zesh gave Imran Hussain a beautiful pass and Imran, through header, made no mistake.
Pakistan were leading 1-0 at lemon break. Sri Lanka tried their level best to equalize but all their efforts went in vain and the second half remained goalless.
Sindh Governer Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan inaugurated the championship in a colorful ceremony. Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) president Faisal Saleh Hayat, PFF secretary Arshad Khan Lodhi and Sindh sports minister Qamar Mansoor were also present on the occasion. (Daily Times by Mirza Iqbal Baig)