Cambodian football team’s arrival marred by PFF mismanagement

ISLAMABAD: The Cambodian national football team touched down in Pakistan, setting the stage for a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against the host nation’s green-clad squad. As they prepare to face off in the second leg of the qualifiers, the teams are gearing up for an intense showdown at the Sports Complex in Islamabad, scheduled for October 17.

However, the Cambodian team’s arrival was marred by a less-than-warm welcome, sparking social media controversy. Instead of the expected official bus, a pickup truck was dispatched to collect and transport their luggage to the hotel, causing eyebrows to raise within the sports community.

Worst reception given to Cambodia team at airport, Zero Management & Professionalism as Official Board, Shahzor loader was arranged at the airport for Luggage & Players loading luggage by themselves. Shameful Act NC PFF @TheRealPFF @FIFAcom @kenny_jeanmarie pic.twitter.com/pVSoCypAMA

— Arsalan Khokhar (@AK_Playfield) October 15, 2023

In images circulated on social media, the Cambodian players themselves can be seen loading their luggage onto a Shahzore loader, prompting criticism from social media users and raising concerns about the management exhibited by the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF).

Pakistan vs India match seemed more like a BCCI event, says Mickey Arthur

HUM News English reached out to PFF for comment, but no response was received until the filing of this story.

World Cup qualifier

The first leg of this pivotal match unfolded at Phnom Penh’s National Olympic Stadium on Thursday, concluding in a hard-fought goalless draw. With so much at stake, the upcoming clash promises to be a nail-biting contest, as the victor secures a coveted spot in the next round of the qualifiers, joining Group G alongside formidable opponents such as Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Jordan.

The ultimate goal for these teams is to clinch a berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the lead-up to this critical qualifier, Pakistan’s national team has endured a challenging run, with defeats in each of the 12 preceding matches. Despite the hurdles and the less-than-ideal welcome, both squads are now focused on the battle ahead, striving to make their mark on the international football stage.