Improving their performance match after match, India made a smooth passage to the semi-finals of the ninth SAF Games in Islamabad on Thursday night.

In the semi-finals, India will take on Bhutan while Pakistan meet Sri Lanka after a day's rest on Friday.

Playing their third and final match in Group A, India scored once in each half to beat Afghanistan and top the group with seven points.

India had to wait for 42 minutes to forge ahead against a well-organized Afghanistan defence. S. Malsawmtluanga had a hand in both of India's goals. Jerri Zirzamwa headed home his lofted pass for the first goal.

Crossing over, India created lot of openings but the rival defence stood firm. However, a clear move by Tulanga from the left split the Afghanistan defence. Marlenki Suiting trapped his lob into the box and hit a stiff shot which was blocked by the Afghan goalkeeper. But off the rebound, Suiting darted in to slam home.

Earlier, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by a solitary goal, scored by Mohammad Essa in the 88th minute.

Yesterday, Bhutan was lucky to make the grade thanks to the spin of the coin after it tied with Nepal on points and goals.