Pakistan held by Afghanistan in AFC Asian Cup qualifier

Otis Khan missed crucial penalty as hosts dominate but fail to convert their chances against the visitors

Pakistan were held to a 0-0 draw by Afghanistan at the Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad on Thursday, with Otis Khan missing a crucial penalty as the hosts secured their first point in the third round of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Nolberto Solano’s side dominated possession and created the clearer chances throughout the match, taking advantage of a fatigued Afghan squad that had arrived in the capital less than 24 hours before kickoff due to a prolonged visa delay. The visitors struggled to impose themselves, appearing jaded and disorganised at times, but defended resolutely to deny Pakistan a breakthrough.

The defining moment came midway through the second half when Khan was awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. The forward, however, blasted the spot-kick over the crossbar, leaving the fervent home crowd frustrated. Despite several other opportunities, Pakistan were unable to find the back of the net, while Afghanistan threatened on the counter but could not convert their limited chances.

 

 

 

 

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The draw meant both Pakistan and Afghanistan earned their first points in Group ‘E’, trailing joint-leaders Syria and Myanmar by five points. Syria are scheduled to host Myanmar later on Thursday in a clash between the two sides who had won their opening two matches.

Only the group winner will advance to the tournament finals in Saudi Arabia, leaving both sides with plenty to play for in the remaining fixtures. For Pakistan, the missed penalty will be a bitter memory, but the team will take encouragement from dominating much of the match.

Solano praises Pakistan’s fighting spirit

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Nolberto Solano expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance.

Solano commended his players for their resilience and commitment despite the challenges faced in the buildup to the match.

“First of all, I’m really pleased with the team with all the boys. With all the small issues we had, especially with some players arriving a little late, it’s not easy. But I was very pleased with their attitude today, especially when the players came on in the second half,” Solano said.

Reflecting on the game, the former Peruvian international highlighted Pakistan’s dominance and solid display across both halves.

“I believe we dominated the match for most parts of the game and were a very solid team. Like the players, I’m disappointed we couldn’t take all three points not just because of the missed penalty, but because we had other chances as well. Honestly, these guys are doing their best, and I’m proud of them,” he added.

Solano acknowledged the physical toll on players traveling long distances to join the national camp, praising their professionalism and spirit.

“It’s not easy for these guys traveling 15, 19, or even 20 hours to arrive in Pakistan a day before the match. They didn’t have much time to train together, but I had confidence in them,” he said.

When asked about preparation for the upcoming away leg against Afghanistan, Solano remained optimistic.

“We’ll prepare in the same way. We need to check how the boys are physically and mentally after traveling from different parts of the world. I was very impressed with most of them, especially as it was my first time seeing some of them play. We’ll build on this performance for the next match on Tuesday,” he stated.

Addressing the question of player selection, Solano reiterated his open-door policy for the national side.

“I always say the national team is never closed to anyone. All good players are welcome. As you saw today, players who haven’t played much recently came in and made a real impact. That’s what we want — competition, commitment, and pride in representing Pakistan,” he concluded.