The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced a landmark moment for youth football in the country, as the Pakistan U-16 Boys team departs to participate in the UEFA U16 Boys Development Tournament 2026.
The event will take place from April 24 to 30 at the Namys Stadium Biik Sports Complex in Almaty, marking Pakistan’s first-ever involvement in a UEFA-sanctioned competition at any level.
The 19-member squad, selected by the national coaching staff, represents a diverse mix of emerging talent from across Pakistan.
For these young players, the tournament offers a rare opportunity to compete against UEFA-affiliated nations and gain invaluable exposure to European football standards at a formative stage in their development.
PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani emphasized the significance of the occasion, describing it as a critical step toward bridging the gap between Pakistan’s youth teams and elite international competition.
“Access to European competition at this level has historically been out of reach for our young players, and that is a gap we are determined to close,” he said.
“The U-16 age group is where footballers begin to define themselves. This is exactly the kind of tournament where our boys’ character will be tested.”
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He further stressed the federation’s long-term vision of consistently providing international platforms for youth development, noting that exposure beyond domestic football is essential for nurturing world-class talent.
The team departed earlier today from Jinnah International Airport in Karachi and is expected to arrive in Almaty later tonight ahead of the competition’s kickoff.
The squad includes goalkeepers Samar Razzaq and Naveed Ullah. In defense, Muhammad Alam, Hamza Amjad, Maqbool Ahmed, Nadeem Hussain, Abdul Raheem Elahi, and Syed Manzar Shah have been selected.
The midfield features M. Mustafa, M. Essa, Sagar Mehrban, Haroon Rasheed, Shahraz Khan, Abdul Samad, Hamza Yasir, and M. Hanzala. Leading the attack are Danish Masih, M. Rafay, and Kaleem Ullah.
The participation signals a new chapter for Pakistan football, as the federation seeks to integrate its youth teams into the global football ecosystem.
For the young squad, the tournament is more than just a competition; it is a chance to test their potential on an international stage and lay the groundwork for the future of the sport in Pakistan.
