Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has congratulated Pakistan's national football team on securing a historic triumph at the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament in the Maldives, where the Green Shirts defeated Afghanistan 2-0 in the final to lift the coveted title. The victory marks Pakistan's first standalone international football trophy and the country's most significant football achievement since sharing the Asian Quadrangular Championship title with India in 1952. The landmark success has sparked celebrations across the country and renewed optimism about the future of Pakistani football.
In a message posted on social media platform X, Prime Minister Shehbaz praised the team's determination, discipline and fighting spirit, saying their impressive performance had brought pride and joy to the entire nation. “Heartiest congratulations to Pakistan’s football team on winning the 2026 Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament. Their victory over Afghanistan in the final is a moment of great pride for Pakistan,” he said, while wishing the players continued success in future competitions.
The achievement also drew praise from Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who described the triumph as the beginning of a new era for football in the country. He commended the players and coaching staff for their commitment and resilience throughout the tournament, calling the title a source of inspiration for athletes across Pakistan.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti likewise lauded the victory, describing it as a proud moment for the nation and proof of the players' dedication and hard work. He also lauded the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) and reaffirmed his government's commitment to supporting sports development and nurturing young talent.
Meanwhile, PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani termed the title-winning campaign the defining achievement of his tenure. He said the success reflected the remarkable progress made by Pakistan football over the past year and fulfilled his promise to take the sport to new heights. “From years without an elected federation to winning our first final in a standalone international tournament, we have come a long way,” Gilani said, adding that the triumph sends a strong message that Pakistan possesses the ambition, resilience and potential to compete successfully on the international stage.
