ISLAMABAD: As the final whistle blew at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium on Thursday night, the scoreboard read 0-0, but for the crowd spilling out into the cool evening air, the result meant more than just numbers.
For many fans, it was an evening of renewed belief that football in Pakistan is finally finding its rhythm. Inside the stadium, Pakistan and Afghanistan fought a tense, end-to-end battle in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier. Both sides pressed hard, but neither could break the deadlock.
Pakistan’s defense, led by Sweden-based Abdullah Iqbal, kept Afghanistan’s forwards at bay, while Shayak Dost and Ahmed Faraz came close on the counter. The biggest moment came when Otis Khan’s penalty kick flew over the bar, a miss that drew collective gasps from the stands.
But outside the stadium, disappointment quickly gave way to pride and optimism.
“This was a really positive performance for Pakistan,” said Zain, a university student draped in a green flag. “We’ve faced so many hardships in our football journey, but today felt different. You could feel the energy. The new faces, the fight. It gives hope to every young footballer dreaming of wearing that green shirt one day.”
Nearby, Saif, another football enthusiast, praised both teams for their spirit. “It was a close, cutting-edge contest,” he told Pakistan TV Digital. “Pakistan missed a few chances, but the brotherhood between Pakistani and Afghan fans was beautiful. We were joking, cheering together, it felt like football was uniting us.”
The match also drew fans who usually follow cricket, signaling a cultural shift. Rimsha, a former athlete attending her first live football game, said the sight of packed stands gave her goosebumps.
“I’ve grown up in a cricket-crazy country,” she said, “but tonight showed that Pakistanis love football too. It’s amazing to see families, women, and kids all here supporting the team.”
Head coach Nolberto Solano, speaking after the match, echoed the fans’ optimism. “These players have shown great effort and commitment,” he said. “They deserve more opportunities to compete at this level, and more support from the nation.”
As fans drifted out into the Islamabad night, flags still waving and chants echoing faintly, one thing was clear: even without goals, Pakistan’s football revival has found its heartbeat and its believers.
