(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Announces Squad for Historic Debut in AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced its final 16-man squad for the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, marking a historic first appearance for Pakistan in a major international futsal event.
This milestone reflects the federation’s growing commitment to developing futsal, a fast-paced indoor variant of football that is gaining popularity worldwide.
Pakistan has been drawn in Group D for the qualifiers, which will take place in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The team will face tough opposition from Iraq, Chinese Taipei, and the host nation.
The squad announcement comes after nationwide open trials and a training camp at the Liaquat Gymnasium in Islamabad, overseen by Head Coach Sakhawat Ali. The roster has been carefully structured to provide balance across all positions.
Pakistan Squad for AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers
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Goalkeepers: Muhammad Zaid, Muhammad Tahir
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Anchor (Defenders): Muhammad Humza Khan, Hamza Nusrat, Zohaib Altaf, Asif Ahmad
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Right Wing: Hassaan Zafar, Abdul Hannan, Yousaf Ahmad, Shams Taj
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Left Wing: Moez Sajjad, Muhammad Bin Masud, Ariz Mahmood
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Pivot (Strikers): Muhammad Adan, Muhammad Ali Riaz Khan, Zaid Ullah Khan
Pakistan will begin its campaign on September 20 against Iraq, followed by a clash with Saudi Arabia on September 22, before concluding the group stage against Chinese Taipei on September 24.
According to the tournament format, the eight group winners and the seven best second-placed teams will qualify for the main competition, scheduled to be held in Indonesia next year.
For Pakistan, this debut goes beyond participation—it marks the beginning of a new chapter in futsal development. The qualifiers provide a valuable opportunity for players to gain international exposure and for the country to showcase its emerging talent on the Asian stage.
