LAHORE, June 3: Two goals by Abid Ali enabled defending champions Army to cruise into the final of the 2nd national U-21 football championship, beating Punjab 2-0 in the semifinals at Railways Stadium on Saturday.

Faisalabad-born winger, Abid struck twice in the second half.

Spearhead Faheem Riaz, who represented Pakistan in AFC Challenge Cup, created both the goals for Abid.

Under the captaincy of stopper Haji Muhammad, Punjab did well to stop star-studded Army from scoring in the first half.

Seven players of Army were in Malaysia last month for Second AFC President Cup 2006.

The first half provided chances to Abid in the 7th and 15th minute but he missed with poor finish.

Punjab also made dangerous inroads through wingers Ouon Shaw, Muzammil and Saeed but they failed to beat Army's keeper Muhammad Imran in the 18th and 35th minute.

Under coaching of Muhammad Afzal and skilful skipper Adnan Bari, Army dominated the second half and struck twice.

Abid opened the account in the 56th minute when Faheem went through the middle but his try rebounded and unmarked Abid, with a forceful angular drive found the net through the legs of Punjab's keeper Qamar.

Faheem also created the second goal.

He again gave a fine pass to Abid in front of the cage. Abid cashed in on the opportunity putting the ball into the left corner with a first timer to make it 2-0 in the 74th minute.

It was 24th goal by Army in the competition and they did not concede any.

Pakistan Navy and Wohaib Club will play the second prefinals on Sunday and the winners will face Army in the final on June 6.