In the annals of Pakistani sports history, Tuesday’s triumph over Cambodia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers etches a moment of profound significance. Harun Hamid Khan’s 68th-minute goal at the Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad has secured Pakistan’s first-ever victory in this prestigious tournament. The Men in Green’s advancement to the second round of preliminaries is a testament to the resilience and determination of a team that has weathered challenges and defied expectations. Facing formidable opponents in Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Tajikistan in Group G, Pakistan now stands on the cusp of further glory, poised to make its mark on the global football stage.
Pakistan’s footballing journey has been marked by disruptions, with security concerns and internal turmoil forcing the relocation of home games to neutral venues in previous qualifying campaigns. The return of international football to Pakistan after an eight-year hiatus not only signifies a breakthrough in sporting achievement but also reflects a triumph over adversity. However, one glaring adversity is the financial struggles. Unlike their cricketing counterparts, Pakistani football players receive little to no salary, highlighting a stark disparity in the economic landscape of the sport.
This financial limitation extends to the overall development. Football infrastructure, training facilities and grassroots development programmes are hampered by limited resources and funding. This not only impedes the growth of the sport but also hinders the ability of players to reach their full potential. Yet, their unwavering commitment to the sport is commendable. As Pakistan celebrates this watershed moment, it not only revels in the glory of a singular victory but also sets its sights on a future where football takes its place as a symbol of national pride and unity.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 19th, 2023.
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