Pakistan, April 25 -- Pakistan's next generation made history when they stepped onto the pitch at the BIIK Sports Complex for their opening match of the UEFA Under-16 Development Tournament in Shymkent, Kazakhstan on Saturday even though the result was not the one they would have wanted.

Pakistan coach Mohammed Essa, however, hailed the learning experience on offer for his side after seeing his charges lose 4-1 to hosts Kazakhstan.

"This is a learning experience for the team since it is the first time that a Pakistan side is playing in a UEFA competition," said Essa. "It was the first game for the team here and I think we did well after a tough first half."

Pakistan were 4-0 down at the end of the first half but were more vibrant in th...