By our correspondent
LAHORE: Former international star Nolberto Solano endured a nightmarish debut as head coach of Pakistan’s Under-23 football team, suffering a crushing 8-1 defeat to Iraq in their opening match of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers on Wednesday.
The Group G clash took place at the Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where Iraq asserted their dominance, particularly in a ruthless second-half display.
Despite a promising start, Pakistan trailed 1-0 at halftime. However, Iraq ran riot after the break, netting seven more goals. Ali Jasim Elaibi led the charge with a second-half hat-trick (47’, 66’, 72’), while Ahmed Ayyed Al-Aridhee added a brace (78’, 90+4’). The scoring was rounded out by Faisal Amori (32’), Dhulfiqar Younus Al-Imari (83’), and Ali Sadeq Shaheen (85’). Amori’s opener came from the penalty spot.
Pakistan’s lone goal came through McKeal Abdullah in the 61st minute, offering a brief respite in an otherwise one-sided affair.
Former national team head coach Shehzad Anwar, speaking to this correspondent criticized the performance and tactical setup.
“Pakistan played decently in the first half, but performance also depends on the team’s condition and maturity,” said Anwar. “They lacked energy and experience. After the third goal, they were completely demoralized. The team shape collapsed.”
He pointed to issues in defensive organization and midfield control.
“There was too much penetration through midfield. The ball was easily lost near the defensive line. If you work hard to win possession, you must retain it—but they couldn’t,” he added.
Anwar also questioned Solano’s squad selection, notably the decision to bench Abdul Rahman, a senior national team player.
“I think the coach misread both his own players’ capabilities and Iraq’s strength. Talent alone isn’t enough—you need hard work, smart decisions, and commitment. Not playing Abdul Rahman was a big miss.”
He did, however, single out goalkeeper Najeeb for praise: “Najeeb saved at least eight more goals.”
Pakistan will next face hosts Cambodia on September 6 at the same venue.
The qualifiers feature 44 teams divided into 11 groups. The group winners and the four best runners-up will advance to the AFC U23 Asian Cup finals.
