(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan’s AFC Qualifier Preparations in Disarray Ahead of Crucial Clash with Afghanistan
Oct 6, 2025 | 9:28 am
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s build-up to their crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Afghanistan has been thrown into chaos, with ongoing administrative and financial troubles within the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) threatening to derail the team’s preparations.
The highly anticipated fixture, scheduled for October 9 at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium, faces uncertainty as multiple logistical hurdles continue to mount.
Visa Delays for Afghan Team
According to journalist Faizan Lakhani, the Afghan squad has yet to receive visas for travel to Pakistan. The delay, reportedly caused by internet disruptions in Kabul, has raised concerns that the visitors may not arrive in time for the match — one of Pakistan’s few international home fixtures in recent years.
PFF Faces Funding and Management Crisis
The PFF is once again under fire for mismanagement and a severe funding crisis. Sources confirm that FIFA’s development funds remain suspended due to the federation’s failure to submit audited financial statements for the past two years.
This financial shortfall has forced the PFF to scale down its player selection plans. The initial squad was expected to feature 13 overseas-based players, but only five have been retained due to cost constraints — Harun Hamid, McKeal Abdullah, Ateeq Hussain, Abdullah Iqbal, and Otis Khan.
Tactical Setback for Pakistan
Head coach Nolberto Solano, who had pinned his hopes on the experience and skill of the foreign-based players, now faces a tactical rethink. The lack of international exposure among the remaining players could significantly affect Pakistan’s competitiveness in the must-win encounter.
Crucial Match Under Threat
With visa delays, funding issues, and administrative disarray all converging, Pakistan’s preparation for the AFC qualifier hangs in the balance.
If these problems are not resolved swiftly, Pakistan risks entering the match underprepared — or, in the worst-case scenario, seeing the fixture postponed or canceled altogether.
For fans, this represents another frustrating episode in Pakistan football’s ongoing struggle for stability and progress on the international stage.
