Pakistan’s long-awaited of football homecoming in World Cup qualifier faces Cambodia challenge

WEB DESK: As Pakistan braces for the second leg of their World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in Islamabad, former Huddersfield and Tranmere winger Adnan Ahmed reflects on his international debut almost 16 years ago.

Born in Burnley and a product of Manchester United’s academy, Ahmed’s first appearance for Pakistan ended in a challenging 7-0 defeat by Iraq in Lahore.

According to The Guardina, in an exclusive interview, Ahmed expresses mixed emotions about that debut, describing it as a bittersweet experience. Despite the challenging start, he notes that the team’s second leg performance marked a significant step, securing a historic 0-0 draw against the Asian Cup-winning Iraqi team.

However, a bitter power struggle within the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has cast a shadow over the nation’s football, leading to a suspension of domestic leagues in 2015. This dispute has prevented Pakistan from hosting a World Cup qualifier on home soil since, creating a tumultuous period for the national team.

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Under new manager Stephen Constantine, the team recently ended a 12-match losing streak with a surprising 0-0 draw in the first leg against Cambodia. The draw has sparked optimism, with hopes that Pakistan could advance to the second qualifying round, potentially making history in the process.

Ahmed, who won 27 caps for Pakistan, is part of an independent review group working on a long-term plan for Pakistani football.

Reflecting on the challenges, he expresses sympathy for local players whose livelihoods depend on the sport, emphasising the need for stability in the PFF.

The ongoing struggle within the PFF, marked by sanctions from FIFA, has hindered the progress of football in Pakistan. Ali Ahsan from FootballPakistan.com describes the past eight years as disastrous, characterising it as almost a lost decade for the sport.

Constantine’s appointment has brought hope to millions of football supporters in Pakistan, and the team’s performance against Cambodia could determine the manager’s future.

The draw in the first leg showcased a resilient defensive display led by captain Easah Suliman, a former England youth international.

Despite challenges, including disputes over player eligibility, there is optimism that players like Suliman and Grimsby winger Otis Khan can inspire the next generation of South Asian footballers. Ahmed emphasises the importance of building a strong backbone for the future, with players like Suliman and Khan serving as figureheads for upcoming talent.

As Pakistan aims to secure a spot in the first group stage, where they would face Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tajikistan, the nation eagerly anticipates the outcome of the second leg against Cambodia, hoping for a positive turn in their footballing fortunes.