The participation in the tournament was also a part of Pakistan’s preparations for the Asian Games and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup later this year. PHOTO: FILE
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was disappointed with Pakistan’s performance in the last match of the Al-Nakba International Tournament, where the side lost to Palestine 3-0 on Saturday.
PFF Secretary Ahmed Yar Khan Lodhi said that he was let down with the scoreline as Pakistan failed to net a goal.
“We expected them to play better,” Lodhi told The Express Tribune. “They should’ve scored at least one goal in their match against Palestine.
“But this is just a part of the game. Our team is still in the development process. These players need experience and maturity.”
The participation in the tournament was also a part of Pakistan’s preparations for the Asian Games and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup later this year.
On the other hand, Lodhi said that the real challenge was for Coach Mohamed Shamlan, who was refused by the Israeli authorities to enter Palestine who then camped in Jordan for the duration of the tournament, instructing the players through the telephone.
“Shamlan is still in Jordan and that was tough for the players. He was coaching on the phone which is nearly impossible,” said Lodhi
He added that the PFF has taken up the issue with Fifa and the AFC regarding Shamlan.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 19th, 2014.
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