Pakistan face Malaysia in Olympics qualifier

Coach hopes football team can handle pressure today.

LAHORE: Pakistan’s under-21 football coach Tariq Lutfi hopes that the young side can handle pressure as they face hosts Malaysia for their London Olympics qualifier at the Shah Alam Stadium today.

“It’s normal for the public to expect a lot from this game,” said Lutif. “But it’s not fair to judge these young players because they need time to develop.”

However, Lutfi is also optimistic that more international exposure will eventually lead to enhanced results and more confidence.

The Pakistan under-21 team completed its sixth visit of Thailand on Sunday having played three warm-up matches against local clubs and an under-21 international friendly against the hosts during their two-week camp.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 23^rd, 2011.