Football in Pakistan has always been overshadowed by cricket, but things are changing. The Pakistan football team’s ranking has been on a rollercoaster ride due to administrative issues and a lack of international exposure. However, with new management stepping in, there is hope for improvement.
This article explores how the Pakistan national football team is evolving under new leadership, what challenges they face, and how they plan to improve their FIFA ranking.
Pakistan Football Team’s Current FIFA Ranking & Recent Performance
The FIFA ranking of Pakistan football team has struggled over the years, often ranking among the lowest in Asia. As of 2024, Pakistan remains outside the top 180 nations in the world, but there have been signs of progress.
Recent Performances:
Competed in the SAFF Championship and AFC qualifiers
Played international friendlies to gain experience
Introduced overseas Pakistani players to strengthen the squad
With consistent international matches, the Pakistan national football team could significantly boost their FIFA points.
Challenges Faced by Pakistan Football
Pakistan’s footballing struggles are not just about talent; there are several deep-rooted challenges:
- Lack of funding & infrastructure: Unlike cricket, football in Pakistan has received minimal investment.
- Limited international exposure: The team has played fewer friendlies, impacting the Pakistan football team’s ranking.
- Administrative conflicts: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has faced political interference, delaying progress.
The new management must overcome these issues to revive Pakistan’s football.
New Management & Their Vision for Pakistan Football
The newly appointed Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) leadership has outlined a five-year roadmap focusing on:
Development of youth academies in major cities
Hiring foreign coaching staff with international experience
Improving domestic football leagues to groom young talent
This vision aims to make the Pakistan football team more competitive on the international stage.
Strategic Improvements Under New Management
The Pakistan football team is undergoing several key improvements:
Football academies established in Karachi, Lahore & Islamabad
Hiring international coaches to train local players
Participation in more AFC and SAFF tournaments
These initiatives are expected to improve Pakistan football’s global ranking.
Role of Overseas Pakistani Players in the National Team
Many Pakistani-origin footballers are excelling in foreign leagues. Bringing them into the national squad can elevate Pakistan’s football performance.
Some key overseas players in the current squad include:
- Otis Khan (England) – Attacking midfielder
- Yousuf Butt (Denmark) – Goalkeeper
- Harun Hamid (UK) – Forward
Scouting Pakistani football players abroad is part of the Pakistan Football Federation’s strategy to strengthen the team.
Pakistan’s Domestic Football League & Its Impact on Rankings
A strong domestic football league is crucial for producing top-tier players. The Pakistan Premier League (PPL) is being revived to develop local talent.
Countries like Japan, South Korea, and India have significantly improved their football rankings through strong domestic leagues. Pakistan must follow the same model to build a competitive squad.
Government & Private Sector Support for Football Development
Football development requires strong financial backing. Fortunately, recent efforts have seen:
- Government investment in sports infrastructure
- Private sponsorship deals with corporate brands
- Improved training facilities for young footballers
The involvement of corporate sponsors could help Pakistan football grow like cricket.
Tactical & Training Improvements Under New Management
Football is not just about passion; it requires modern tactics and training. New management has introduced:
Advanced fitness & conditioning programs
Tactical training with international coaches
Youth-focused development camps
These training improvements will help Pakistan compete better in international tournaments.
Pakistan’s Roadmap for FIFA World Cup Qualification
Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is the ultimate dream for Pakistan football. Although challenging, it is achievable through:
A well-structured domestic league
Participation in Asian competitions
Exposure to international tournaments
With continuous investment in Pakistan football, the national team’s FIFA ranking can improve significantly.
Comparison with Other Emerging Asian Football Nations
Pakistan can take inspiration from neighboring football nations like:
- India – Improved ranking through the Indian Super League (ISL)
- Bangladesh – Focused on grassroots football development
- Nepal – Consistently played in regional tournaments
By learning from these models, the Pakistan football team can accelerate its development.
Fan Support & Football Culture in Pakistan
Football’s popularity is rising in Pakistan. The national team’s performance can improve further if:
- More fans attend domestic league matches
- Social media campaigns promote Pakistan football
- Football academies engage young players in the sport
A strong football culture will help build a competitive national team.
Impact of New Management on FIFA Ranking Progress
With recent changes, Pakistan’s FIFA ranking could improve through:
Consistent participation in AFC & SAFF tournaments
Development of local talent through Pakistan Premier League
Better coaching & training programs
If these initiatives continue, Pakistan could rise in the FIFA rankings within 2-3 years.
Future of Pakistan Football: What Lies Ahead?
The next 5 years are crucial for Pakistan football’s growth. If the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) remains committed, we can expect:
Pakistan competing in major Asian tournaments
A stronger domestic football league
Improved FIFA ranking & potential World Cup qualifiers
The future looks bright, but continued investment and management stability are key to success.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s football team ranking has struggled, but new management is working hard to improve its performance. With better coaching, stronger domestic leagues, and international exposure, the Pakistan national football team could rise in the FIFA rankings and become a competitive force in Asian football.
FAQs
1. What is Pakistan’s current FIFA ranking?
Ans: As of 2024, Pakistan ranks among the lowest in international football but is working towards improvement.
2. How can Pakistan qualify for the FIFA World Cup?
Ans: By playing more international matches, developing local talent, and improving football infrastructure.
3. Who are the key players in the Pakistan football team?
Ans: Players like Otis Khan, Yousuf Butt, and Harun Hamid are contributing to the squad’s growth.
4. What role does the Pakistan Premier League play?
Ans: A strong domestic league is essential for producing top-quality players and improving rankings.
5. What are Pakistan’s football plans?
Ans: The new management aims to develop youth academies, hire foreign coaches, and increase international exposure to boost rankings.