The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced the final national men’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier Round 2 matches against Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan.
Pakistan will face Saudi Arabia at the Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad on June 6, followed by an away fixture against Tajikistan on June 11 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Players from the diaspora (D) have already joined the team.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Yousuf Butt (D), Saqib Hanif, Hassan Ali
Defenders: Abdullah Iqbal (D), Mohammad Fazal (D), Haseeb Khan, Rao Omer Hayat, Mamoon Moosa, Mohammad Saddam, Waqar Ihtisham, Moin Ahmed, Abdul Rehman
Midfielders: Rahis Nabi (D), Otis Khan (D), Ali Uzair, Umair Ali, Toqeer ul Hassan, Alamgir Ghazi, Ali Zafar
Forwards: Imran Kayani (D), McKeal Abdulah, Fareedulah, Adeel Younas, Shayak Dost
Pakistan is placed in Group G, which includes Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tajikistan.
These matches are crucial for Pakistan’s journey in the World Cup qualifiers, providing an opportunity to showcase their talent on an international stage. The inclusion of diaspora players is expected to strengthen the squad with their global experience.
The team, under the guidance of their coaching staff, has been preparing rigorously to face the challenging opponents in their group. The PFF and fans alike are hopeful for a strong performance from the national team in these pivotal matches.
The fixtures against strong teams like Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan will be a true test of the squad’s capabilities and teamwork. The players are motivated to make their mark and advance further in the qualifiers.
Success in these matches could significantly boost the profile of football in Pakistan, encouraging greater participation and investment in the sport. The upcoming games are not just about qualifying but also about building a legacy and inspiring the next generation of footballers in Pakistan.
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