(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Missed Penalty Costs Pakistan Victory in Goalless Draw Against Afghanistan
October 9, 2025
Pakistan’s quest to stay alive in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers took another hit as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Afghanistan at the Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad. Despite dominating large spells of the game and creating several clear chances, Pakistan failed to convert — with Otis Khan’s missed penalty proving to be the decisive moment of the match.
Missed Chances Prove Costly
Pakistan showed attacking intent from the start, pressing high and looking to exploit gaps in Afghanistan’s defence. However, finishing let them down throughout the contest. The key moment came in the 65th minute, when Ahmad Faraz Gulzari was fouled inside the box, earning Pakistan a golden opportunity to take the lead. Unfortunately, Otis Khan sent the penalty over the bar, leaving the home crowd stunned.
Afghanistan goalkeeper Ovays Azizi later pulled off a brilliant save to deny Gulzari again in the dying moments, ensuring the match ended goalless.
Tactical Adjustments and Positives
Head coach Nolberto Solano made several changes to his lineup, switching to a back-five formation with captain Abdullah Iqbal leading the defence. Eitizaz Hussain and Ahmad Faraz Gulzari both earned their international debuts, while Kaleemullah and McKeal Abdullah were introduced in the second half to add attacking depth.
Pakistan’s strategy focused on counter-attacks, while Afghanistan relied on patient build-up play. The balance shifted after halftime, but Pakistan’s inability to finish clear chances cost them what could have been a crucial win.
Group E Standings
The draw ended Pakistan’s eight-match losing streak, offering a small morale boost, but they remain bottom of Group E with just one point.
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Afghanistan now sit third in the table.
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Myanmar and Syria continue to lead the group standings.
Looking Ahead
Despite the disappointment, there were encouraging signs for Solano’s men, who showed improved cohesion and tactical discipline. Experts believe that with better preparation and longer training camps, Pakistan can build on this performance in future matches.
Pakistan will face Afghanistan again on October 14, in the reverse fixture to be held in Afghanistan — a match that could determine their survival hopes in the ongoing qualifiers.
