ONE AFTER THE OTHER: After the confirmation of the new date for the AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers, Saadullah (Extreme Right) will now begin his stint with the Maldives club before representing Pakistan in the UAE. PHOTO: FILE
The event was scheduled to begin in Lahore on March 21, but due to the unrest in the city, the AFC called for a rescheduling of the qualifiers, featuring five teams which include Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Jordan and Turkmenistan. It will now take place in the UAE starting May 15.
After cancelling his ticket twice, the Pishin-based footballer’s prayers for a new date are finally answered. “I want to represent Pakistan and avail this opportunity as well,” Saadullah told The Express Tribune. “This is equally important because it shows that Pakistan football is growing. Till a year ago, we weren’t even considered by foreign clubs for hiring.”
The 22-year-old said he was relieved that the qualifiers will be held in May. “Kuwait and Kyrgyzstan wanted to play in April, but the other countries including Pakistan were looking at May as was I since I can get enough exposure in Maldives by then and return as a better player.”
Saadullah added that he was excited about experiencing the sport with players from Spain, Trinidad and Tobago and Nigeria. “It’s going to be an interesting mix and I’m looking forward to joining the new club.
”I’m going in with confidence and I want to be the best player and top-scorer in the Maldives Premier League by the end of my six-month contract. BG Sports FC saw my talent and I want to prove myself with this opportunity and understand how professional leagues work.”
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