Adeel Rizki, the head coach of the Pakistan women’s football team, has acknowledged that FIFA is helping the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) develop a women’s league. Rizki feels that the league will help Pakistani women’s football advance.
Unbelievable scenes from last night. This team has come a long way in such a short span of time!
— Pakistan Football Federation (@TheRealPFF) January 20, 2023
Here’s to making Pakistan proud on every opportunity that we get. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported us!#PakistanFootball #DilSayFootball #WomensFootball pic.twitter.com/mrxFlz8gBT
According to Rizki, “[Before] there was only] the national women’s championship, which was held for a relatively little time once a year.” We are currently collaborating closely with FIFA to introduce the women’s league, which might change women’s sports in Pakistan.
Rizki was pleased with his team’s development given its extended eight-year absence from the international stage. “Our idea is to compete in every competition available to us, through which we can give our players global exposure,” he said.
“We want to involve young players in order for us to develop a team for the future. Most importantly we are focusing on building a team identity and a playing style. This is a process that takes time. We are confident that we are on the right track,” he added.
Malika-e-Noor, a defender, noted that Pakistan has enormous potential for women’s soccer.
The 28-year-old defender stated, “Since I started playing football, I have observed a big shift in the development of women’s sports in Pakistan. “It happens in other sports besides football. Speaking of football, numerous teams and academies are currently attempting to advance the game at the grassroots level.
“Our recent performances helped restore the place of women’s games in the fans’ hearts. Those who said football had no future before are now standing behind us and supporting us. They are willing to let their daughters, sisters, and wives play the game to represent our country at the international level. Our federation is consistently investing in women’s football, and I am really hoping that one day we will play in an Olympic tournament and at a FIFA Women’s World Cup,” she added.
Pakistan came in second place in the recently held four-nation cup in Saudi Arabia, it should be noted.
Pakistan defeated Comoros in their first meeting, winning 1-0, but lost to Mauritius in their second meeting, losing 2-1. Their final game against Saudi Arabia at home concluded in a 1-1 tie.
