Nazeer puts debutants PPL in Challenge Cup quarters

KARACHI: Captain Nazeer Khan led from the front and put debutants Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) in the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup as they defeated Karachi Port Trust (KPT) 1-0 in their last Group E game here at the KPT Sports Complex on Sunday.

Nazeer hit the winner in the 12th minute on a corner kick. Earlier, in the start goalkeeper Sanaullah saved KPT from a real blow with a timely punch.KPT’s Zubair could have struck twice before the interval but each time he failed to place the ball rightly.

At half time PPL were leading 1-0. In the second half too, tight game was seen with KPT failing to capitalise on the chances that came their way.“We could not avail ourselves of the chances. That damaged our cause,” KPT coach Zafar Majeed told ‘The News’.

Zahid Hameed, PPL’s assistant coach, credited his boys’ hard work. “Our team did a tough job,” Zahid said.Meanwhile, the Group A match between Ashraf Sugar Mills (ASM) and Falcon FC here at the All Brothers Football Ground in Malir ended in a goalless draw. This put ASM in the quarter-finals.