Harambee Stars opponents Pakistan thrashed by Mauritius

©Pakistan FA

FOOTBALL: Harambee Stars opponents Pakistan thrashed by Mauritius

Festus Chuma 18:30 - 11.06.2023

Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Mauritius in the Four-Nations tournament opener.

Pakistan were thrashed 3-0 by Mauritius in Sunday's Mauritius Four-Nations Series opener played at Cote d'Or National Sports Complex.

The South Asia nation hoped to make a winning start in the competitions where Kenya will also be taking part but ended up bowing to Les Dodos.

Pakistan goalkeeper Yousaf Butt made a great save off Ashley Nazira's shot early on in the match, and he continued to be well-positioned throughout.

Otis Khan's shot missed the target in the 28 minutes, hitting the side net on the left for the Falcons.

In the 40th minute, Jean Nabab wasted a great opportunity of giving his side the lead as he was all alone inside the box but shot wide.

Loic Michel also made a great save just toward the end of the first half, tipping away a cross that was delivered by Rahib Nabi.

In the second half, Michel continued with his form as he made a good save once again, denying Pakistan a lead.

Mauritius got a well-deserved lead in the 53rd-minute courtesy of Jeremy Villeneuve, who outran Pakistan's defense before placing the ball beyond the reach of goalkeeper Butt.

Pakistan's hopes of bouncing back got dashed after America-based attacker Ashley Nazira doubled the lead for the home side in the 63rd minute.

Seven minutes later, Mamoon Mossa Khan gifted Mauritius with an own goal when he deflected Tony Fracouis shot into his own net.

Kenya will face Pakistan on Wednesday and hopefully learnt a thing or two on how to engage their opponents in their opening fixture before facing Mauritius next Sunday.

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