Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has unveiled the probable squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Syria.
The crucial away fixture is scheduled to take place on March 25, 2025, in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
The announced squad features a mix of experienced and emerging talents across all positions.
In the goalkeeping department, Yousuf Butt, Saqib Hanif, Abdul Basit, and Adam Khan have been included.
The defensive lineup comprises Abdullah Iqbal, Easah Suliman, Haseeb Khan, Junaid Shah, Mamoon Musa, Mohammad Fazal, Abdul Rehman, and Waqar Ihtisham.
For the midfield, the squad features Alamgir Ghazi, Ali Uzair, Ali Zafar, Mohammad Umar Hayat, Rahis Nabi, Tuqeer Hassan, Umair Ali, and Moeen Ahmed.
The forward line includes Fareed Ullah, Haroon Hamid, Imran Kiyani, Mikal Abdullah, Abdul Samad, Shaikh Dost, and Mohammad Adeel Younis.
The final squad selection will be announced closer to the match date.
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The PFF Normalization Committee (NC) is actively seeking funding from both the AFC and FIFA to ensure the effective organization of the camp. This much-needed camp is anticipated to equip the national team with sufficient time and resources for preparation ahead of the significant match.
The PFF’s Normalization Committee (NC) is actively working to secure the necessary funding from the AFC and FIFA to ensure the successful implementation of the camp. The camp is projected to provide the national team with sufficient preparation time and facilities to prepare themselves for the high-stakes encounter.
The Pakistan football squad finds itself in Group E of the qualifiers, alongside Syria, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, with fixtures set to occur on a home-and-away basis. The contest against Syria will represent Pakistan’s first step in its campaign to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
The PFF’s choice to hold the camp in Saudi Arabia is regarded as a strategic decision, considering the availability of top-notch facilities and the proximity to Syria, which will aid the team in acclimatizing to comparable conditions. The camp will also enable the coaching staff to evaluate the players’ fitness and performance while applying tactical strategies for the forthcoming match.
Speaking on the matter, a PFF representative conveyed hopefulness regarding acquiring financial support from AFC and FIFA, stating, “We are hopeful that the funding will be sanctioned soon, as this camp is vital for the team’s preparation. The players require proper training and exposure to compete at this level.”
The match against Syria on March 25 will be a litmus test of Pakistan’s readiness and determination to compete on the Asian platform.