Pakistan’s 23-Member Squad Announced for AFC U-17 Asian Cup Qualifiers

Islamabad, November 4, 2026: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced the 23-member national squad for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers. The event will take place from November 8 to 20 in Laos.

The players included in the national squad were selected from the top performers who proved their mettle in the recently held PFF National U-17 Football Championship 2026. Young footballers from across the country participated in the championship, showcasing their skills to secure a place in the national team.

The championship provided young players with a competitive and merit-based opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and earn national team selection, with standout performers earning their spots in the squad. This selection reflects the PFF’s commitment to building an effective pathway for the development of young footballers in the country and providing them with opportunities to represent Pakistan at the international level.

Under head coach Muhammad Habib, the national team will compete in Group D against Iran, Jordan, host Laos, and Sri Lanka.

The 23-member squad includes three goalkeepers, eight defenders, seven midfielders, and five forwards.

Goalkeepers: Samar Raza Q, Waliullah, Ahsanullah.

Defenders: Nadeem Hussain, Hamza Khan, Muhammad Hammad, Syed Manzar Shah, Mubashir Shah, Muhammad Owais, Hasnain Ali, Mohsin Amin.

Midfielders: Abdul Samad, Arsalan Faridi, Muhammad Khalilullah, Muhammad Imad Sarwar, Muhammad Anees, Bari Dad, Isa Khan.

Forwards: Muhammad Rafi, Muhammad Musa, Muhammad Shehrazad, Hazrat Abbas, Haris Khan.

The young Shaheens will now be determined to replicate their domestic performances on the continental stage and secure a place in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2027.

Reporter Ali Hassan