After Haris Rauf, Pakistani Under-17 footballer sparks controversy with Rafale and tea-cup gesture in SAFF U17. Watch

In a double blow in less than 24 hours, India’s under-17 football team defeated Pakistan 3-2 in the SAFF U17 Championship in Colombo on Monday, but the match drew attention as much for a controversial celebration as for the result. Pakistani player Muhammad Abdullah copied a “Rafale” and 'tea-sipping' gesture after scoring, sparking debate a day after Pakistan cricketers Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan made provocative gestures during their Asia Cup match against India.

How it began

India went ahead in the 31st minute through Dallalmuon Gangte, who converted a cross from Danny Singh Wangkhem. Pakistan equalised in the 43rd minute when Abdullah converted a penalty. It was then that he ran to the corner, sat down with teammates, and acted as if sipping tea, a gesture that many viewers saw as mocking.

India beats Pakistan once again on the field

The celebration, however, backfired. India regained the lead in the 63rd minute through Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam’s finish, though Hamza Yasir levelled for Pakistan seven minutes later by latching on to a rebound.

India settled the contest in the 73rd minute when Rahan Ahmed reacted fastest to a loose ball and calmly slotted in the winner. The team then defended strongly in the final minutes to secure victory.

Haris Rauf Controversial Gesture

The incident came less than 24 hours after Pakistan’s cricketers courted controversy with provocative celebrations against India in Dubai, only to lose their Asia Cup Super Four clash. India won that game by six wickets, and their junior footballers followed it up with a win on the field against Pakistan.

SAFF U17: What the result means?

Both India and Pakistan had already booked semifinal spots, making this a group game without direct impact on qualification. But India’s victory reinforced their edge over the rivals, while Abdullah’s gesture ensured the game will be remembered for more than just the scoreline.

(Inputs from PTI)