ISLAMABAD, July 13: Pakistan overpowered hosts United Arab Emirates 3-2 in their opening match in the 9th Al-Rashid International volleyball tournament at Dubai on Wednesday night.

In a match that went to full distance, the score was 23-25, 26-24, 18-25, 25-19 and 15-13 in favour of Pakistan for whom Zaheer Abbas and Naseer Ahmed played exceedingly well, guiding their side to victory in a five-game thriller.

Pakistan, India, UAE, France, Iran, Oman, Slovenia and UAE Juniors are participating in the tournament which will conclude on July 19.

The Pool A of the preliminary round comprises Pakistan, India, UAE and France while Pool-B consists of UAE Juniors, Slovenia, Iran and Oman.

Pakistan will play their second match against India on Friday.-—APP