KARACHI, Aug 8: Mohammad Basheer’s second half strike propelled Habib Bank into the semifinals after a narrow 3-2 triumph over Victory Sports in the All-Pakistan invitation football tournament at Baloch Mujahid Stadium Thursday.

The match that saw the bankers going into deficit twice, remained goalless until the 40th minute when Abdul Hafeez slammed home to enable Victory Sports take 1-0 lead.

HBL’s Mohammad Jawaid put the game on an even keel four minutes later, but the bankers once again went 2-1 down after Mahmood Raza scored for Victory Sports.

Mohammad Pervaiz equalised for HBL in the 52nd minute, while Basheer pounced in the 60th minute to guide his side into the last four.

Formidable Karachi Port Trust (KPT) also sailed into semis, but after almost a one-sided match with a 3-1 win over Young Fighter.

KPT secured an early lead when Habib Ghulam converted a second minute penalty, while Ghulam Farooq made it 2-0 before the break.

Abdul Khaliq came into action late into the second session, firing in the third for KPT in the 80th minute.

Mohammad Amir’s effort in the 85th minute was the only consolation for the Young Fighter.