Pakistan and Afghanistan Draw in AFC Asian Cup Qualifier

ISLAMABAD: In their third match of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, Pakistan and Afghanistan concluded with a 0-0 draw on Thursday at Jinnah Stadium.

The Pakistani team started energetically, launching frequent attacks, but couldn’t penetrate Afghanistan’s strong defense during the initial half.

Afghanistan’s robust defensive structure effectively prevented Pakistan from converting opportunities into goals.

Pakistan was presented with a prime chance to score in the 67th minute with a penalty kick. However, Otis Khan’s attempt was unsuccessful, keeping the score level.

Despite the frustration from missed chances, fans showed their appreciation for the teams’ efforts in a tightly contested match.

Pakistan’s journey in Group E has faced a tough beginning, marked by successive losses to Syria and Myanmar.

In their first match on March 25, Pakistan was defeated 2-0 by Syria at Prince Abdullah Bin Jalawi Stadium in Saudi Arabia.

Defender Ahmad Faqa scored first in the 23rd minute, assisted by Amar Ramadan, and captain Omar Alsoma added another goal in the 56th minute.

Despite a determined defense, the Pakistani team couldn’t restrain the experienced Syrian squad.

The team’s second match resulted in a 1-0 loss to Myanmar at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon on June 10.

Than Paing’s well-placed free-kick in the 42nd minute decided the match, as Pakistan struggled to equalize, maintaining a defensive stance against Myanmar’s control of the ball.

Following these results, Pakistan will now head to Kuwait for their next Group E match against the same Afghanistan team on October 14.

The leading team from each group will secure a spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2027, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia.