There a is lot of excitement around the India versus Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 final, scheduled for Sunday (September 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

On the eve of the marquee fixture, legendary pacer Wasim Akram picked India as the favourites to lift the coveted Asia Cup trophy for the record-extending ninth time.

However, Akram urged the Men in Green to carry the confidence and momentum from the 11-run win over Bangladesh in their last Super 4 clash.

Pakistan, despite posting a modest total of 135 runs, managed to secure a win against Bangladesh and book their place in the summit clash.

“I hope so (Pakistan’s bowling comes to the fore on Sunday too), and look, it’s an India-Pakistan game. India definitely is the favourite on Sunday," Akram was quoted as saying by PTI.

“But you guys have seen, cricket lovers have seen, I have seen, anything can happen in this format. One good innings, one spell can change the course of the game."

“The Pakistan team should take this confidence, this momentum to Sunday and back themselves and play sensible cricket," he added.

With Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill ripping the opposition apart in the powerplay, India’s middle order hasn’t been tasted much in pressure situations.

Wasim Akram believes Pakistan can push on the back foot by dismissing both openers early in the game.

“Ideally, a couple of early wickets, especially Abhishek and Gill, can definitely put India on the back foot. It should be a close game, and I hope in the end, the best team will win," he remarked.

Pakistan have lost their last seven matches to India across ODIs and T20Is, including twice in the ongoing Asia Cup by seven wickets and six wickets respectively.

While India will look to continue their dominant record, Pakistan will aim to avenge their last two defeats against the traditional rivals to clinch their third Asia Cup title.