KARACHI:
Despite having immense football talent, Pakistan has failed to develop this potential and facilitate football players in the country. Just recently, FIFA lifted the long-lasting ban on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), which offers many a glimmer of hope. Most of us have grown up playing football but limited infrastructure, a lack of resources, and insufficient investment have hindered the growth of the sport at both grassroots and professional levels.
There are not enough playgrounds in towns and cities to promote the sport. Most local clubs do not have competent coaches to guide and train emerging players. Yet many male and female players have pursued the sport passionately and emerged victorious in local and regional tournaments.
Pakistan’s national football team’s recent successes in international games have ignited a renewed sense of enthusiasm and optimism. Football can be revolutionary for a country and the 2022 world cup in Qatar was a prime example of it. With the proper support and dedication from stakeholders, Pakistan can become a force to reckon with. Investing in the local clubs and arranging tournaments can help pave the way for a brighter future for the sport in the country. We should all help with the development of football in Pakistan. Let us start by supporting our team in the upcoming South Asian Football Federation Championship match against India on 21st June.
Shariq Khan
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, June 4th, 2023.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
