Pakistan held by Afghanistan in AFC Asian Cup qualifier

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.

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.