Pakistan football team invited to inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s national football team has been invited to participate in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup, marking a major milestone for the country’s football development, officials said.

According to sources, FIFA extended a formal invitation to Pakistan, which was subsequently confirmed by the Pakistan Football Federation regarding the national team’s participation.

The tournament is scheduled to be held in Indonesia from Sept. 21 to Oct. 6, where Pakistan will compete in Division One against teams including India, hosts Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

Officials said this will be a significant opportunity for Pakistan, as it will mark the national team’s first appearance in a FIFA-affiliated competition outside World Cup qualifiers or Asian qualifying events.

Sources added that Pakistan’s inclusion in the tournament was facilitated by PFF President Mohsin Gilani’s engagement and diplomatic contacts with FIFA officials.

Experts say participation in the event could provide Pakistan with valuable international exposure and a chance to assess its football progress on a competitive regional stage.