(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Abdullah Iqbal: Pakistanβs Rising Football Star Chasing Glory in Europe
Abdullah Iqbal, captain of the Pakistan national football team, is on the verge of making history both at club and international level. The 23-year-old defender currently plays for Swedish club MjΓ€llby, who are leading the Allsvenskan (Swedenβs top league) and closing in on a maiden title.
While Abdullah remains focused on helping his club finish the season strongly, his impressive performances have already attracted interest from European clubs β including Serie A side Cremonese. A potential move to one of the top five European leagues would mark a massive breakthrough for a Pakistan international.
From Denmark to Pakistan Captaincy
Born and raised in Copenhagen, Abdullah began his career in Denmarkβs lower divisions. Interestingly, he started as a midfielder before being converted into a defender by his coach at B.93, his boyhood club. The switch paid off, and his consistent displays eventually earned him a call-up to the Pakistan national team.
Abdullah made his international debut against Nepal and quickly became a key figure in the squad. Within a year, he was handed the captainβs armband β a proud moment for both him and Pakistani football fans worldwide.
Making History with Pakistan
Abdullah was part of the team that recorded Pakistanβs first-ever win in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Cambodia. He describes that victory as βthe best feeling of my career so far.β
Although Pakistan couldnβt secure wins in the next round of qualifiers, Abdullah believes the team is improving with every match. With new coach Nolberto Solano, he remains optimistic about Pakistanβs footballing future.
Eyes on European Glory
While his heart beats for Pakistan, Abdullah is also aiming to make his mark in European football. With MjΓ€llby eight points clear at the top of the Allsvenskan and only a handful of games remaining, a league title looks within reach. Winning the championship would not only boost his profile but also increase his chances of moving to a bigger European league.
Abdullah is taking things βone game at a time,β but he admits that his dream is to join a top club in one of Europeβs elite competitions. His journey from the Danish third tier to potentially lifting a Swedish league trophy shows the determination and perseverance that define his career.
A Message for Pakistani Fans
What motivates Abdullah the most is the support he receives from fans back home. βFor me, itβs about giving back to the people of Pakistan. I want them to celebrate my club career but also enjoy proud moments with the national team,β he said.
π Abdullah Iqbalβs story is more than just about football β itβs about chasing dreams, overcoming setbacks, and inspiring millions of Pakistani fans. Whether itβs lifting the Allsvenskan trophy or making the leap to a top European league, his journey is only just beginning.
