LAHORE - Pakistan etched their name into the history books on Wednesday, ending a 74-year wait for a major international football title by defeating Afghanistan 2-0 in the final of the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament at the National Stadium in Male, Maldives.
Historic Victory
A spectacular overhead kick from Shayek Dost and a late moment of brilliance from Harun Hamid sealed a memorable victory for the Shaheens, who lifted the first stand-alone international tournament trophy in the country's football history. The triumph marks one of the most significant achievements in Pakistan football since the national team shared the Asian Quadrangular Football Tournament title with India in 1952. However, unlike that success, which was decided on a league basis, Wednesday's victory came in a tournament final, making it an unprecedented milestone for the Green Shirts.
Match Highlights
Backed by a passionate contingent of supporters waving Pakistan's flags and chanting throughout the contest, Pakistan overcame an energetic Afghan side that had entered the final seeking revenge for their earlier 2-0 defeat to the Shaheens in the group stage. Afghanistan started brightly and enjoyed early possession, but Pakistan gradually settled into their rhythm and began creating opportunities through the lively Otis Khan on the left flank.
The breakthrough arrived in the 24th minute. Following sustained pressure, the ball fell kindly to Shayek Dost inside the penalty area, and the striker produced a stunning acrobatic overhead kick that left the Afghan goalkeeper rooted to the spot and sent Pakistan's supporters into celebration.
The goal shifted momentum firmly in Pakistan's favour, although Afghanistan remained dangerous and came close to equalising when they rattled the crossbar just before halftime. Pakistan returned after the break with renewed confidence. Adil Nabi nearly doubled the advantage moments into the second half when his powerful effort struck the woodwork. The Shaheens continued to dominate possession and controlled proceedings with composed passing football under head coach Nolberto Solano.
As Afghanistan pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Pakistan's disciplined defence, marshalled superbly by goalkeeper Saqib Hanif, stood firm under pressure. The victory was finally secured deep into stoppage time when substitute Harun Hamid produced a moment of individual brilliance. The winger glided past his marker with quick footwork before calmly guiding his finish in off the post to spark jubilant celebrations among players and supporters alike. The title capped an unbeaten campaign for Pakistan and represented the nation's first appearance in an international tournament final since the 1962 Merdeka Cup.
Reactions
Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani lauded the achievement as a defining moment for the sport in the country. “When I assumed office, I promised that we would achieve milestones that Pakistan football had never achieved before. This victory is proof that the game is moving in the right direction. From years of uncertainty to lifting our first stand-alone international tournament trophy, we have taken a significant step forward,” Gilani said. The PFF chief expressed confidence that the success would serve as a catalyst for a brighter future. “This is more than a trophy; it is a statement of Pakistan football's ambition, resilience and potential. We remain committed to providing our players with every opportunity to compete and succeed on the international stage,” he added.
“This historic victory proves that with professional leadership, transparency, and determination, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved. What Pakistan football could not accomplish for decades has been realized in a remarkably short period. I salute our players, coach Nolberto Solano and his team for their courage, passion, and commitment. I dedicate this historic achievement to the people of Pakistan. This is only the beginning of our journey towards greater success.” PFF Chief Operating Officer Muhammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar echoed the same sentiments, saying: “Today marks a historic day for Pakistan football. Under professional leadership of Syed Mohsen Gilani and his clear vision, we have achieved what remained elusive for decades. This success belongs to the entire nation and signals a bright future for Pakistan football.”
