Pokhara, March 27:

Pakistan defeated Nepal 2-0 to draw the friendly football series 1-1 here at the Pokhara Stadium today. Nepal had won the first match 2-1 on Tuesday.

Nepal, who has made five changes in the playing set, conceded both the goals in the second half. Kasim and Rasul scored for the visitors. Pakistan took lead in the 46th minute when Kasim guided the ball from the centre beating all the defenders before rounding off goalkeeper Bikash Malla.

Rasul doubled the tally in the fourth minute of the seven-minute injury time from close range on a rebound after defender Chun Bahadur Thapa failed to clear a cross from Pakistani skipper Isal.

“The lack of coordination among the players was reason behind the loss,” said coach Bhim Thapa. He also blamed the his players for playing under pressure. “We had asked the players to play easily, but they played under pressure,” he said.

The series was an experiment for Nepal as six home team players made their debut for the national team. Santosh Sahukhala, Nirajan Khadka, Biraj Maharjan and Under-19 skipper Bikash Singh Chhetry were included in the starting eleven after their impressive performance in the first match.

Nepal muffed up at least four opportunities in the first half. Pradeep Maharjan headed over the bar on Sandeep Rai’s free kick in the fourth minute, while Nirajan Khadka’s powerful shot was inches wide off the post.

Anil Gurung wasted a chance in the 27th minute after playing one-touch pass with Ju Manu Rai, whereas Pakistani goalkeeper saved Pradeep Maharjan’s 30-yard strike in the 38th minute. Pakistan skipper Isha also squandered up an easy opportunity in the first half.

The home team was denied the equaliser in the 55th minute when Pakistani goalkeeper saved Sahukhala’s strike before Anil Gurung wasted a chance in the 74th minute. Pakistani coach Akhtar Mohiuddin said the series helped his boys a lot. “The series provided our player a good opportunity to play a strong team like Nepal,” he said.