Pakistan’s historic football victory signals new era for the sport

WEB DESK: The increasing trend of football in Pakistan reflects the promotion of the sport in the country. Thousands of fans gathered at Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad to support the FIFA qualifier matches. This report explores the history of football in Pakistan and considers potential avenues for improvement.

Rohit, Kohli bow out of T20 internationals after World Cup

Pakistan secured its first-ever football World Cup qualifying win against Cambodia. Historically, football in Pakistan has been significantly influenced by players from Lyari. For many years, the sport was confined to areas such as Balochistan and Lyari. From 1948 to 2003, the National Championship took place, followed by the commencement of the Pakistan Premier League.

However, the lack of professional football clubs meant there was limited access to quality coaching and staff. Despite football’s global popularity, its standing in Pakistan declined due to administrative neglect. The departmental system in Pakistan, which was abolished in other countries after the 1960s, contributed to this decline. Nevertheless, local football matches in Chaman, Balochistan, still attract thousands of participants.

Despite Pakistan’s role in manufacturing footballs for international competitions, the country has remained absent from international football. FIFA imposed bans on the Pakistan Football Federation in 2017 and again in 2021.

Euro 2024: Brands make big business with team jerseys

The ban was lifted in 2022, allowing Pakistan to play against Nepal. This marked Pakistan’s return to international football and its first advancement to the second round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The next significant goal for Pakistan is the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Football experts suggest that investment in the sport and the establishment of a domestic league are crucial.

Football coach and Pakistan’s national football team manager Stephen Constantine believes Pakistan is not yet ready for the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Developing football talent requires the establishment of proper coaching centres. The Dubai-based football club TFA organises annual talent hunt programmes in Pakistan, offering opportunities for promising players to join international clubs. International clubs also conduct regular talent hunt programmes, providing training and skills enhancement.

India beat SA to win T20 World Cup for the second time

Organising similar programmes can help bring Pakistan’s football talent to the forefront. Assistance from international coaching staff should be sought to introduce young players to new techniques. Talent hunt programmes should be organised to promote football and identify talent from the grassroots level. Development initiatives are essential to ensure that skilled players gain access to international clubs.