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Football - Int News

FOOTBALL - Int News 05 Jul, 2025

Pakistan women beat Kyrgyzstan to secure second position in AFC Qualifiers

Jakarta(SBR): Pakistan women’s football team concluded their maiden appearance in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers on a high note, defeating Kyrgyzstan 2-1 in their final group match and finishing second among four teams. Despite the impressive win and finishing second in the group, Pakistan could not advance to the next round, with Chinese Taipei securing qualification. In Group standings, Chinese Taipei led the table with a commanding 9 points, having secured victory in all their matches. Pakistan follow in second place with 6 points, showcasing solid performances and winning two out of three games. Indonesia secured third position with 3 points while Kyrgyzstan were at the bottom of the group without a point. In the crucial encounter, star forward Mariam Mahmood emerged as the hero, scoring both goals for Pakistan. She opened the scoring in the 4th minute and calmly converted a penalty in the 26th minute to give her side a 2-0 lead. Though Kyrgyzstan managed to pull one back, the Pakistani defense held firm to secure the victory. President of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), Syed Mohsen Gilani, praised the national team for their commendable performance throughout the tournament. "Our national women’s team displayed great character and fighting spirit during their debut campaign at the AFC Qualifiers.” “Despite winning two matches and finishing second, we were unfortunate not to progress to the next round. But this is just the beginning,” said Gilani and added: “With continued support and sincere efforts, I am confident that our team will perform even better in future international events."

FOOTBALL - Int News 26 Jun, 2025

Pakistan squad set to depart for AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers

Sport Bulletin ReportIslamabad: President of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), Syed Mohsen Gilani visited the training camp of the Pakistan women’s national football team in Islamabad ahead of their participation in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers.During his visit, President Gilani interacted with the players and coaching staff, expressing his best wishes and confidence in the team’s performance. He also discussed training progress and preparations with the team.The training camp, led by Head Coach Adeel Rizki, concluded today after several days of preparation. The team is set to depart for Indonesia tonight via a private airline, transiting through Karachi and Bangkok before reaching Jakarta.Pakistan are placed in Group E alongside Chinese Taipei, host nation Indonesia and Kyrgyzstan. The team will play its first group match on June 29 against Chinese Taipei, followed by the second match on July 2 against Indonesia, and the final group game on July 5 against Kyrgyzstan.

FOOTBALL - Int News 09 Jun, 2025

Pakistan will fight to win against Myanmar: Stephen Constantine

Yangon(SBR): The head coach of the Pakistan Men’s National Football Team, Stephen Constantine, addressed the media in a pre-match press conference today, ahead of Pakistan’s crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier against Myanmar.Opening his remarks, Constantine expressed gratitude to the hosts, stating: "Firstly, thank you very much to the Myanmar Football Association for the hospitality."He acknowledged the tough challenge ahead but maintained confidence in his players' efforts and attitude. "I think for us it will be a very difficult game. For Pakistan, all of the games are difficult. I think everyone knows our situation, but we have a good group of players. They have worked hard over the last few days and we will come here to try to win the game."The coach highlighted the team's focus and adaptability in preparation for the match. "We come here to play football. I think the boys have adapted well to the training. We just have to get on with it. Every single game you play for Pakistan is important – even friendlies."Reflecting on the previous fixture against Syria, Constantine shared: "We prepared, we played with Syria in the last game. We lost 2-0, but I think we played quite well."Responding to a question he said: "Myanmar won their last game, so of course they're playing at home, they will be favourites for this game. But we will fight like we do in every game and we will try to get the result that we want, which is to win. We didn't come here to lose."Pakistan will face Myanmar tomorrow in Yangon in their second Group E fixture of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers. The match will take place at the Thuwunna Stadium, Yangon, with kickoff scheduled for 03:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time.

FOOTBALL - Int News 04 Apr, 2025

SAFF holds Extraordinary Congress 2025 Sri Lanka

Sports Bulletin ReportColombo (Sri Lanka): The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) delegation participated in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Extraordinary Congress 2025, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.A two-member PFF delegation, led by President Saud Azim Hashimi and Acting General Secretary Mohammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar, actively represented Pakistan in the high-level gathering. The event was presided over by Kazi Salahuddin, President of SAFF. Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), attended the event as a special guest. During the congress, Purushottam Kattel, a former AFC official, was appointed as the new General Secretary of SAFF, marking a significant administrative development for the South Asian football. One of the key highlights of the event was a dedicated meeting between the PFF leadership and AFC President Shaikh Salman, accompanied by Vahid Kardany, Deputy General Secretary of the AFC, who played a crucial role in the recent PFF Congress settlement, ensuring alignment of the PFF Statutes with AFC and FIFA.During the discussion, the focus remained on the ongoing normalization process in Pakistan football and the upcoming PFF elections, both considered crucial milestones in revitalizing the country’s footballing landscape. PFF President and NC Chairman Saud Azim Hashimi briefed the AFC President on the progress of the PFF elections and outlined the steps ahead in the electoral process.Expressing optimism, Shaikh Salman shared his hopeful expectations for a new era of leadership to emerge from the upcoming PFF elections. He emphasised that strong, stable leadership is essential for the sport’s growth in Pakistan and pledged all-out AFC support to assist the country in its journey toward football development and excellence. The PFF delegation also held productive sideline discussions with leaders of other SAFF member nations, where they explored avenues for regional collaboration, joint ventures, and strategies to advance shared goals in South Asian football.

FOOTBALL - Int News 02 Jan, 2025

RIYADH WELCOME: FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT FOR NEW AC MILAN MANAGER

Sports Bulletin ReportRiyadh (Saudi Arabia): Sergio Conceicao wants to make an excellent first impression on fans in Riyadh for his opening match as AC Milan manager in the EA Sports FC Italian Supercup semi-final versus Juventus.The Portuguese, who replaced compatriot Paulo Fonseca in charge at the beginning of the week, is in the unique situation of spending his debut competing against son Francisco Conceicao, who plays as a winger for Juventus.However, speaking at the pre-match press conference for the semi-final at Al Awwal Park in Riyadh on Friday at 10pm, Conceicao says family feelings will stop for 90 minutes with full focus on reaching Monday’s final.Conceicao said: “We have a huge responsibility which is defending the colours of one of the most historical clubs in football. We have a strong fan base, not only here but also elsewhere globally and we will do our best to make our supporters happy and proud. We have to play aggressively against Juventus. Our goal is to penetrate Juventus’ defence as a complete team, not by relying on individual players. Having my son on the opposing team won’t affect me. My goal is clear: to win like I do in any other match. There is no place for feelings on the field. There are many Portuguese players and coaches here in Saudi. It’s a league that is growing a lot and quickly. We can literally feel the passion for football and the will to grow. Many important players are contributing to this evolution.”Motta said: “Thank you very much for the hospitality. We are in a very pleasant environment to do our job and give our best. We must be able to not let the change in AC Milan leadership influence us. We are ready for everything; we must be the main character. Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli added: “It has been great hospitality; we have been hosted in a very pleasant way. Juventus is supported around the world, and this motivates us to win. The Saudi league is developing, it has improved a lot. They invested very well, and it will grow even more internationally.”Maignan said: “It’s a very important game for us as players, management, and as a fan base. Me and my team-mates made a pact that moving forward we will do our best. We have high ambitions, will keep doing our best and need to be cautious and follow the coach’s instructions.”

FOOTBALL - Int News 31 Dec, 2024

Saudi Pro League outlines preparations for 2024/25 winter transfer window

Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): Te Saudi Pro League (SPL) has announced its preparations for the upcoming 2024/25 winter transfer window, which will run from January 1 to January 30, 2025. These preparations highlight the league’s commitment to supporting clubs by facilitating player transfers, improving governance and planning, ensuring player welfare, and enhancing financial sustainability.The SPL held a series of intensive workshops with its member clubs to assess their specific needs and objectives for the winter transfer window. These workshops aim to provide tailored support to clubs, enabling them to continue achieving success on and off the pitch. This includes facilitating transfers between clubs within the league.During the 2024 summer transfer window, clubs utilised 16 of the 36 available slots for foreign players under the age of 21. Thirteen clubs signed at least one U21 foreign player, while five clubs did not make any signings in this category. The remaining slots provide opportunities for further reinforcements during the winter window.Additionally, all 18 clubs reached the maximum allowance of eight foreign players over the age of 21 per squad by the end of the summer transfer window. Consequently, new signings in this category during the winter window will require clubs to terminate contracts, sell players, or deregister squad members. The SPL will work closely with clubs and the Financial Sustainability Committee to ensure compliance with league policies and regulations.Key outcomes from the 2024/25 summer transfer window include:Average player age decrease: The average player age in the league dropped from 27.6 years to 26.2 years, reflecting a focus on younger talent acquisition.Player movements: A total of 115 domestic players were registered, while 132 departed due to end of contracts, sales, or contract terminations. Meanwhile, 101 foreign players joined the league, and 32 foreign players departed due to end of contracts, sales, or contract terminations.The SPL reiterated that it remains dedicated to fostering transparency and collaboration with clubs while continuing to enhance the league’s competitiveness and organizational excellence.As part of its transformation strategy, the SPL aims to position the Saudi Pro League among the world’s leading football leagues. This strategy focuses on five main pillars:• Developing & attracting elite talent• Build genuine connections with fans and communities• Elevate all clubs• Expand reach and revenue• Drive economic and societal impact

FOOTBALL - Int News 29 Dec, 2024

Gerry's Diplomatic Football League Season-8 starts in Islamabad

Islamabad (PR): Gerry's Diplomatic Football League Season-8 kicked off with a series of exciting matches in the capital city Islamabad. The Season 8 of the Gerry's Diplomatic Football League is marking a vibrant start with some thrilling matches.A total of 18 teams are competing in the league, divided into two groups, battling through the league stage to secure spots in the knockout rounds. In Group B, MOFA, Big Bird, and Central Asia United are leading the pack with six points each, showcasing strong early performances.Meanwhile, in Group A, Trio Homes and Nigeriaare setting the pace as group leaders.The league has attracted the diplomatic community in Islamabad where more than 25 different nationalities are participating, with approximately 280 players contributing to the international camaraderie and competitive spirit.Event is being hosted at Iqra University, the official venue partner for the tournament. The event will culminate in a grand final at the end of February next year 2025. The league is proudly title-sponsored by Gerry's and powered by RBS, with additional sponsorship from Trio Homes, Jupi Media and Tours, Joma, and Alamco Duty-Free.The event is organized by its founder, Mubasher Sanjrani, CEO of Sanjrani Oxen Enterprises, who is also participating in the league as a representative of Joma United. The league continues to be a platform for fostering international relations, sportsmanship, and community engagement.The Diplomatic Football League has undoubtedly established itself as one of the most renowned and highly anticipated events among diplomats in Pakistan. Its growing popularity not only highlights the enthusiasm for sports within the diplomatic community but also serves as a testament to the friendly and peaceful image of Pakistan.The Diplomatic league fosters unity, mutual respect, and cultural exchange, showcasing Pakistan as a welcoming host and a hub for international camaraderie. Events like these underline the country's commitment to diplomacy through sports and strengthen its position as a promoter of global peace and cooperation.

FOOTBALL - Int News 07 Dec, 2024

FIFA Women's International Friendly: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Draw 1-1

Sports Bulletin ReportDoha (Qatar): Pakistan and Saudi Arabia played out a 1-1 draw in a thrilling FIFA Women's International Friendly match held in Aspire Academy, Doha, Qatar. The match saw both teams put up a strong fight, with Saudi Arabia taking the lead in the first half before Pakistan responded late to level the score. Saudi Arabia had the upper hand at halftime, leading 1-0. The breakthrough for the Saudi team came in the 39th minute when Talah Alghamdi found the back of the net, giving her side a crucial lead going into the break. However, Pakistan made a spirited comeback in the second half. In the 88th minute, Pakistan's Sohai Herani delivered a stunning equalizer off a well-executed corner kick. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the spoils after an intense encounter.

FOOTBALL - Int News 27 Nov, 2024

Saudi Pro League and OneFootball forge long-term strategic content partnership

Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): The Saudi Pro League (SPL) and OneFootball have announced a new partnership aimed at expanding the global visibility of one of the world’s fastest-growing football leagues. Through this collaboration, the SPL will publish and amplify official video and editorial content across OneFootball, bringing fans closer to the action worldwide than ever before.As part of this partnership, OneFootball will feature video content across its platforms, including content from the SPL’s official social channels. Fans can look forward to engaging match clips, highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and viral moments in vertical and horizontal formats. This initiative aims to enhance the fan experience by providing compelling visual narratives throughout the season.In addition to video content, OneFootball will offer official editorial coverage from the SPL in English, ensuring that fans can access timely updates, in-depth analysis, and expert commentary throughout the season.Omar Mugharbel, CEO of the Saudi Pro League, said: “We are delighted to partner with OneFootball to bring Saudi Pro League content to football fans across the globe. This collaboration is an important step in our commitment to increasing international engagement and providing fans everywhere with a closer connection to the excitement and passion of Saudi football.”Patrick Fischer, CEO at OneFootball, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Saudi Pro League to showcase the incredible talent and excitement of football in the region. This collaboration will elevate the league’s content and enhance the overall fan experience, bringing the vibrant world of Saudi football to a wider audience.”In a dynamic start to their new collaboration, representatives from OneFootball recently travelled to Saudi Arabia to cover the Saudi Pro League’s highly anticipated 'Derby Week,' attending the 'Sea Derby' in Jeddah between Al Ittihad and Al Ahli, as well as the 'Capital Derby' in Riyadh, featuring Al Nassr versus Al Hilal. OneFootball’s on-ground presence brought fans closer to the action with exclusive social media content, behind-the-scenes moments, and in-depth interviews with league representatives, managers, and players, delivering unparalleled insights into one of the most thrilling weeks in Saudi football and showcasing the exciting potential of this groundbreaking partnership.OneFootball will be a primary outlet for publishing the SPL's official text and video content, leveraging its extensive reach to amplify the league's visibility across global audiences. The strategic collaboration aims to enhance global coverage of the SPL by integrating official content into OneFootball’s ecosystem, enhancing fan engagement and fostering a deeper connection between the league and its supporters (Press Release).

FOOTBALL - Int News 01 Nov, 2024

Stephen Constantine proud of leading Pakistan to World Cup Qualifiers

LAHORE (PR): The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced the completion of its contract with Stephen Constantine, head coach of the Pakistan Men’s Football Team.Appointed by the Haroon Malik-led Pakistan Football Federation Normalisation Committee as Head Coach in September 2023, Stephen Constantine guided Pakistan to a historic achievement with its first-ever victory in the first round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, securing a 1-0 win over Cambodia at Islamabad's Jinnah Stadium.In a heartfelt message, Stephen Constantine said: "I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the PFF for entrusting me with the incredible opportunity to lead the Pakistan National Team through some of its most historic achievements. The unforgettable scenes at Jinnah Sports Stadium on October 17, 2023—when our 1-0 victory over Cambodia secured Pakistan’s first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers—will forever be etched in memory. To my staff—every individual on and off the pitch—you were phenomenal. Few will ever truly understand the level of commitment and sacrifice you poured into this journey. Your dedication was invaluable to our mission, and it was an honor to lead alongside you. Thank you for everything you did for me, the team, and the country."In a message to the fans, he said: "To the people of Pakistan—the fans, and everyone who cares deeply about football—it has been a privilege to lead the Shaheens over the past year. Your support from beginning to end has meant everything to us, and I am grateful to each of you. To the players—you achieved something unparalleled for Pakistan Football, and you did it with heart and style. You made history, and you reignited hope for 250 million people who believe in Pakistan Football once more."Chairman NC, Haroon Malik said: “PFF and the football community will forever remember his World Cup qualifier match victory. His invaluable contributions to Pakistani football left an indelible mark in history”