Afghanistan News Today – Breaking News, Politics, Sports & Live Updates | Ariana… — Ariananews

Afghanistan’s under-18 futsal team suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Argentina in their second Group A match at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on Wednesday. Argentina secured victory with a dramatic late goal from Valentino Martínez in the final minute, ending Afghanistan’s hopes of taking points from the closely contested encounter at the Iba Mar Diop Complex in Dakar, Senegal. The South American side took the lead through an unfortunate own goal by Afghanistan goalkeeper and captain Ahmad Esmaeili. However, Afghanistan responded strongly, with Ali Ahmadi finding the equaliser in the 18th minute to send the teams into the break level at 1-1. Afghanistan defended resolutely throughout the second half, with Esmaeili producing important saves to keep Argentina at bay as the contest remained finely balanced. Just as the match appeared to be heading towards extra time, Martínez struck again to secure all three points for Argentina. The result leaves Afghanistan with three points from two matches in Group A, following an impressive 5-0 victory over Panama in their opening fixture. Argentina, meanwhile, moved to six points and secured qualification for the semi-finals. Afghanistan will now turn their attention to their final group match against hosts Senegal on Saturday, November 7, with a place in the knockout stages still at stake. The top two teams from each group advance…