Pakistan produced one of the most memorable comebacks in their youth volleyball history on Tuesday, overcoming a two-set deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 and book a place in the quarter-finals of the FIVB Boys’ Under-17 World Championship 2026.

The Green-shirts, ranked 13 in the world, shocked sixth-ranked Egypt 17-25, 21-25, 25-18, 25-15, 15-12 in a gripping round of 16 encounter in Doha.

The victory was all the more impressive given the manner in which Pakistan responded after appearing to be on the verge of elimination. Egypt dominated the opening two sets and moved within one set of securing a place in the last eight.

Pakistan, however, refused to surrender. The young lot dramatically changed the complexion of the contest in the third set, stepping up their serving, blocking and defensive coverage while becoming increasingly aggressive in attack. They took the set 25-18 to keep their hopes alive.

The momentum remained firmly with Pakistan in the fourth set. Playing with greater confidence and composure, the team controlled the exchanges from the outset and won 25-15 to force a decisive fifth set.

The final set turned into a tense battle, with neither side willing to give up ground. Pakistan held their nerves at the crucial moments and closed out the match 15-12, completing a remarkable comeback from 0-2 down.

The victory sparked celebrations among the Pakistani players, coaching staff and supporters, as the team secured their place in the quarter-finals.

Muhammad Waleed, Muhammad Irfan and Fahad Ali were among the players who made significant contributions during the five-set battle. Waleed delivered an influential performance during key stages, while Irfan provided consistency and composure as Pakistan fought their way back into the contest. Fahad Ali also impressed with his attacking contribution and determination in the decisive moments.

The result represents a significant milestone for Pakistan’s youth volleyball programme. Defeating a team ranked six places higher on the world stage underlines the potential of the country’s emerging volleyball talent.

Pakistan had already made a strong start to their campaign, defeating Chinese Taipei 3-0 before suffering a 3-0 defeat against Iran. The Green-shirts bounced back with another straight-set victory, beating Algeria 3-0 to advance to the knockout stage.

Their latest victory over Egypt has now taken them into the quarter-finals, where they will face familiar opponents Iran.

Pakistan will meet Iran today at 7pm PST, with a place in the semi-finals at stake. Iran had defeated Pakistan 3-0 in the pool stage, giving the Green-shirts an opportunity to avenge that defeat on the biggest stage of the tournament.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) congratulated the players, coaching staff, team management and officials on the historic victory and urged the team to remain focused ahead of the quarter-final.

With their place among the world’s top eight Under-17 teams secured, Pakistan now stands one victory away from reaching the World Championship semi-finals.