Pakistan Reach SAFF Championship 2026 Semifinals After Group B Runner-Up Finish

Pakistan have booked their place in the semifinals of the SAFF Championship 2026, securing second spot in Group B after India's 1-0 win over the Maldives at the National Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh, finalised the group standings.

India, the defending champions, topped Group B with six points from two matches. Pakistan finished second with three points, while the Maldives ended their campaign without a point after losing both games without scoring. The decisive result came when Suhail Ahmad Bhat converted a penalty in the 39th minute following a foul inside the box, and goalkeeper Priyansh Dubey made a series of important second-half saves to protect India's narrow lead.

Pakistan had earlier put themselves in a strong position with a convincing 3-0 victory over the Maldives on November 8, a result that followed a 3-2 defeat to India in their opening fixture. Under head coach Nolberto Solano, Pakistan controlled the first half against the Maldives, with McKeal Abdullah converting an early penalty before 19-year-old striker Najeeb Ullah scored twice to seal the win.

Najeeb has been among Pakistan's standout performers in the tournament, scoring three goals in two matches, including one against India. His form will be central to Pakistan's hopes as they prepare for the knockout stage.

Pakistan will face the Group A winners in the semifinals on November 14 at the National Stadium in Dhaka. Their opponent will be confirmed after the Group A match between hosts Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh currently lead the group with three points after a 1-0 win over Bhutan, while Sri Lanka sit second with one point following a 2-2 draw with Bhutan. A draw or win for Bangladesh would set up a semifinal against Pakistan, whereas a Sri Lankan victory would see Sri Lanka top the group.

The other semifinal will see India take on the Group A runners-up. Pakistan are aiming to reach the championship final, scheduled for November 17, as they continue their campaign under Solano.