Pakistan Names 23-Player Squad for AFC U17 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers in Laos
Pakistan has announced a 23-member U17 squad for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers in Laos, where the young Shaheens will face Iran, Jordan, the hosts and Sri Lanka in Group D under head coach Mohammad Habib.
The Pakistan Football Federation has announced a 23-member national squad for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, which will be held in Laos from November 8 to 20. The young Shaheens will compete in Group D against Iran, Jordan, tournament hosts Laos and Sri Lanka.
The squad was finalised on the basis of player performances at the recently concluded PFF National U-17 Football Championship 2026, which brought together emerging talent from across the country. The federation said the tournament gave young players a direct route into the national set-up and reflects its wider effort to strengthen youth football and offer talented footballers international exposure.
Head coach Mohammad Habib will lead the side in Laos. The 23-player group is made up of three goalkeepers, eight defenders, seven midfielders and five forwards, giving the coaching staff cover across every position for a demanding group-stage schedule.
Samar Razzaq, Wali Ullah and Ahsan Ullah have been named as goalkeepers. The defensive line-up includes Nadeem Hussain, Hamza Khan, Muhammad Hammad, Syed Manzar Shah, Mubashir Shah, Muhammad Awais, Hasnain Ali and Mohsin Amin.
The midfield features Abdul Sammad, Arsalan Fareedi, Muhammad Khalil Ullah, Muhammad Irmad Sarwar, Muhammad Anees, Bari Dad and Essa Khan. Pakistan's attacking options are Muhammad Raffy, Muhammad Moosa, Muhammad Shahzad, Hazrat Abbas and Haris Khan.
The team will aim to carry its domestic form into the qualifiers as it pursues a place at the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2027. Progress in the group would mark a significant step for Pakistan's youth development programme and for the country's standing in regional age-group football.
