Pakistan women’s football team has made history by winning their first-ever competitive match, beating Tajikistan 1-0 during the AFC Olympic Qualifiers. Zahmena Malik’s goal helped Pakistan secure their first victory, finishing third in Group E of the first round of qualifiers for the Paris Olympics 2024.
Despite losing their first match against the Philippines 4-0 and going down against Hong Kong 2-0 in their second encounter, the team’s morale remained high. Pakistan’s star striker Nadia Khan was ruled out of the tournament due to an ACL injury, and captain Maria Khan also missed the second and third matches of the group stage due to an injury. Despite these setbacks, the team’s historic win is a significant achievement for women’s football in Pakistan.
Pakistan women’s football team path to the Olympics
The first round of qualifying comprises 26 teams separated into seven groups, and those who emerge as victors from each group will progress to the second round. The five highest-seeded teams, DPR Korea, Japan, Australia, China PR, and Korea Republic, will join them in the second round.
In the third round, there will be a face-off between four teams from the second round, including the top three group winners and the runner-up with the best ranking. The two eventual winners will qualify for the Women’s Olympic football tournament in Paris in 2024.
Despite being ranked 67th in the world, Pakistan’s national women’s team has faced many challenges over the years. The team has struggled with funding and infrastructure, and cultural barriers have also been a hindrance. However, the current team has made significant progress, and their recent win is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Pakistan women’s football team is coached by Tariq Lutfi, a former national team player, and has been training in the United Arab Emirates due to Covid-19 restrictions. On April 2, the team traveled to Tajikistan from Dubai, where they conducted a short training camp and played matches against local clubs.
Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, the team remained determined and focused on their goal, resulting in their historic victory.
Importance of women’s football in Pakistan
Pakistan women’s football team’s success is essential for the growth and development of women’s football in Pakistan. The team’s progress has already inspired many young girls and women in the country, who now see football as a viable career option. The team’s players have overcome cultural barriers and societal pressure to pursue their passion for football, paving the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.
The Pakistan Football Federation has also recognized the importance of women’s football and has taken steps to promote the game. The federation has introduced women’s football at the grassroots level, organizing tournaments and training camps across the country. The national women’s team has also received more funding and support in recent years, allowing them to compete in international competitions and improve their skills.
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Pakistan women’s football team’s historic victory is a significant achievement for women’s football in the country. The team’s dedication and hard work have paid off, inspiring many young girls and women to pursue their passion for football. While the team’s path to the Olympics is still challenging, their recent win has given them the confidence to compete at the highest level.
Pakistan Football Federation must continue to promote women’s football and provide support to the national team to ensure that they can compete with the world’s best teams. With the right funding, infrastructure, and support, Pakistan’s women’s football team can make significant progress and become a force to be reckoned with in international competitions.
