PAF gear up to test mettle in Peace Cup

Football club to feature in K-P, Fata event starting May 10.

KARACHI: PAF are all set to perform in the Pakistan Peace Cup that will begin from May 10 in Peshawar, an international competition where Afghanistan will feature as well.

The Peace Cup is aimed at highlighting football talent of the people from Khyber-Pakthunkhwa (K-P) and Fata, according to organiser and Fata Football Association official Shahid Shinwari.

He said that the event will showcase a balanced image of K-P and Fata and emphasised that the regions’ sports community and citizens want to gain exposure and proper facilities in their province.



The tournament will be featuring PAF, Afghanistan, Pakistan Police and teams from K-P and Fata while a Bangladesh club was also invited. However, they have failed to confirm their participation so far.

Meanwhile, PAF manager Arshad Khan said that the event is essential for players from the northern areas.

“We’ll get to see what skills the footballers of these areas possess,” Arshad told The Express Tribune. “For us, it’s also going to be a talent hunt. If I’ll see any players with potential, I would like to induct them in our departmental team.”

However, Arshad said that Afghanistan will be the toughest competitor for his side.

“Afghanistan are a good team, but I’m not too sure whether their entire national team is coming or not. However, I know that Afghan players have a similar playing style as Pakistan, so I’m not worried. Hopefully, we’ll attract a good crowd for this tournament.”

The official further added that his side will be taking advantage of the Peace Cup for the Inter-Services Championship that will begin on May 20.

“We are the defending champions [at the Inter-Services Championship] and had won the title after more than a decade last year. So I see a great opportunity for my players to practice through the Peace Cup,” concluded Arshad.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 7^th, 2014.

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