In a thrilling turn of events that defied all expectations, the Pakistani national football team, currently ranked at World No. 197, pulled off a historic win against Cambodia, securing their place in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers. It was a night to remember for football enthusiasts in Islamabad as Pakistan emerged victorious with a 1-0 score line, breaking an eight-year-long hiatus of hosting home matches in World Cup qualifiers.
The Unpredictable Showdown
The match began with a less-than-spectacular start for the hosts. The first half was devoid of significant action, leaving fans eager for more excitement. However, all that changed in the second half as Pakistan launched a series of relentless attacks, building momentum and anticipation in the stadium.
The Turning Point
The defining moment arrived in the 68th minute when Harun Hamid, one of Pakistan’s key players, scored the winning goal. The stadium erupted in joy as the referee blew the final whistle, marking a historic achievement for Pakistani football. This victory over Cambodia was especially significant as it was the first time Pakistan had reached the second round of the World Cup qualifiers.
Packed Stadium 💯❤️. Still there are some countries where crowd even don’t come in WorldCup Matches😂.#PAKvCAM | #PAKvsCAM
— Ehtisham Siddique (@iMShami_) October 17, 2023
Pakistan’s Homecoming
This match held added significance as Pakistan donned their iconic all-green home kit for the first time in eight years. The Jinnah Sports Stadium in Islamabad served as the battleground for this remarkable showdown. The last time Pakistan hosted a World Cup qualifier match, it was a bitter memory of a 0-7 loss to Iraq in Lahore 16 years ago. However, the morale of the team remained unshaken this time, especially after ending a 12-match losing streak with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Cambodia in their away fixture.
The Composition of the Pakistan Squad
The Pakistani squad primarily consists of players from the domestic league, showcasing the untapped talent within the country. While most players ply their trade domestically, a few, like defender Easah Suliman, have ventured abroad, enhancing the team’s overall performance. The victory against Cambodia has ignited the nation’s hopes as they look forward to competing in the first group stage against formidable opponents like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tajikistan.
Cambodia’s Surprise Draw
On the other side, Cambodia, ranked at World No. 177, is still reeling from the shock draw they faced against unlikely opponents just days before the World Cup qualifier. The unexpected result against Pakistan demonstrates the unpredictable nature of football.
