Pakistan secure historic football title with win against Afghanistan

WEB DESK: Pakistan clinched the Diamond Jubilee Four-Nation International Football Tournament title on Thursday after defeating Afghanistan 2-0 in the final, marking a historic achievement for the country’s football team.

Shaiq Dost gave Pakistan the lead in the 24th minute before the national side added a second goal in extra time to secure victory and cap an impressive campaign in the tournament.

The triumph is being hailed as a landmark moment for Pakistani football, with officials describing it as the country’s first official international football tournament title.

The victory also ended a decades-long wait for major international success on the football field.

Historic achievement for Pakistan football

Pakistan’s success in the tournament comes 64 years after the national team last reached the final of an international competition, the Merdeka Cup in 1962.

The Green Shirts remained unbeaten throughout the event, recording victories over Maldives and Afghanistan during the group stage, while their match against Bangladesh ended in a draw.

Pakistan Football Federation President Mohsen Gilani congratulated the players and coaching staff on the achievement and announced a reward for the squad in recognition of their performance.

Prime minister congratulates team

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the players, coaches and management on winning the tournament, describing the victory as a source of pride for the entire nation.

In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, he said the team had demonstrated outstanding determination, teamwork and skill to bring honour to Pakistan on the international stage.

The prime minister termed the title an important milestone for the promotion of football in the country and for the development of young athletes.

He expressed hope that the national team would continue to build on its success and achieve further honours while raising Pakistan’s profile in international football.