Pakistan, Nov. 12 -- Pakistan produced a spirited performance but suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Iran in their 2027 AFC Under-17 Championship Group D qualifiers at the Laos National Stadium on Wednesday.

Despite conceding an early goal, Pakistan showed considerable character, taking the game to their opponents and creating several opportunities to find an equaliser.

Iran broke the deadlock in the ninth minute when Amir Mohamed Zarei finished off an attack down Pakistan's right flank.

Muhammad Habib's side responded positively with Nadeem Hussain coming close to restoring parity when he headed a corner straight at the goalkeeper following an impressive piece of skill from Hasnain Ali on the left.

Pakistan continued to press forwa...