While cricket is the main focus of the media in Pakistan, the country’s football team has won plenty of remarkable events. Though not always getting the media attention, Pakistan’s footballers have brought on performances that made the football fans proudly celebrate.
Let’s review the outstanding matches in the history of the Pakistan national football team—times that revive the qualities of courage, skill, and determination that our players possess.
1. SAFF Championship 1991 – A Surprise Victory
One of Pakistan’s first and most nostalgic moments of football was, without a doubt, the 1991 South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship. The tournament took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and it was a shock to the whole region when Pakistan defeated the Maldives in the final. It was a very competitive game, yet Pakistan kept their composure and managed to lift the trophy. This win not only made Pakistani football recognizable in South Asia but also demonstrated that the team was capable of handling stressful situations.
2. 2004 SAF Games – Gold Medal Glory
The Green Shirts were the star attraction at the 2004 South Asian Games in Islamabad. With the support of the home crowd, Pakistan ruled the tournament and took the gold medal by overcoming India in a very close final. The atmosphere inside the stadium was absolutely amazing, and fans had a great time celebrating a substantial football victory on home ground. This win was a big morale boost, which later turned into a bright future for the sport in Pakistan.
3. 2018—Comeback After a FIFA Ban
Following a FIFA suspension caused by internal turmoil, the Pakistan team made a comeback that would forever be remembered. They were victorious over Nepal 2-1 in the group stage of the 2018 SAFF Championship with a fantastic performance. It was not only the winning that mattered—it was the return of Pakistan to the global football scene after a long hiatus. The squad was full of spirit, and that victory symbolized a fresh start.
4. 2023 – Victory Over Cambodia in World Cup Qualifiers
The win in October 2023 over Cambodia 1-0 in the first round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers has been one of the most talked-about victories in recent times. This was the first time Pakistan won a match in World Cup qualifiers—a groundbreaking event was thus established. The fans were thrilled with Harun Hamid’s great goal, the only one of the match. The game was an indication of moving forward and kept spirits high about the brighter future of football in the country.
5. Pakistan vs Guam – A Historic Win in 2008
On April 6, 2008, Pakistan defeated Guam in an AFC Challenge Cup group-stage match with a dominant scoreline of 9–2.
That remains Pakistan’s only victory against Guam, and one of its highest-scoring international wins to date.
Football in Pakistan: Still Kicking, Still Dreaming
Pakistan’s football journey has been a rollercoaster, but these incidents make the fans have faith in the game. The enthusiasm is still there, skills are developing, and with proper support, infrastructure, and management, the aspiration of being at a higher position in the world football league is not unattainable.
As we celebrate these iconic wins, let’s also look forward—to more goals, more matches, and more green flags waving high.