The squad includes former street children, who rose above their circumstances after facing hardships in Pakistan. PHOTO: ATHAR KHAN / EXPRESS
Fifteen-year-old Pakistan midfielder Owas Ali expressed pride in helping beat defending champions India 13-0 in their opening match at the Street Child World Cup in Rio de Janeiro.
“It was great, we’ve shown the world we can win,” said Ali. “Hopefully, I’ll score in the next match, but I realise that as a midfielder, I have to pass the ball. [Abdul] Raziq and Aurangzeb are good shooters and played a pivotal role in the match.” Former fruit-seller Raziq scored eight goals, leaving India’s defence puzzled. Striker Aurangzeb and Meher Ali netted three and two goals respectively.
The tournament is featuring U16 players from 20 countries in seven-a-side football competition. Pakistan is placed in Group Three with India, US, Kenya and Mauritius.
The squad includes former street children, who rose above their circumstances after facing hardships in Pakistan.
The team prepared only for a month in the Sharafi Goth ground in Karachi with Azad Foundation coach Abdul Rashid.“The Indian side just didn’t realise what happened to them,” Azad Foundation Chairperson Managing Committee Naveed Hasan Khan told The Express Tribune.
“Our team shocked everyone. This win has been a huge confidence boost for the children.”
Khan added that with this win he sees immense potential in the team.“This performance exceeded our expectations, but now we know that we can do even better,” he said.
Absorbing the energy
Khan said that the players have gained confidence ever since they have landed in Rio after a 14-hour flight.
“The most exciting experience for them was to visit the Fifa World Cup 2014 venue in Maracana,” he said. “They came back extremely inspired. They also met Brazilian legends like Bebeto and Cafu in last few days and are enjoying every moment here.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 2nd, 2014.
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All They Need Is Some Patronisation.These Kids of Lyari Can Even Face Upto The Likes Brazil
13/0 simply amazing , well done .
Great work guys :) all the best for future matches!
What a great way to start. Beaten India 13-0. Your are my DREAM TEAM.