Pak women set for FIFA debut

Pakistan’s women’s football team is set to embark on a historic journey as it departs today (Monday) for Côte d’Ivoire to participate in the FIFA Series 2026 — marking the country’s first-ever appearance in the prestigious international event. This landmark inclusion follows a key meeting between Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani and FIFA President Gianni Infantino on the sidelines of the Club World Cup last year, where the development of football in Pakistan, particularly the women’s game, was discussed in detail. The tournament, scheduled from April 9 to April 16, will see Pakistan competing against hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritania, and the Turks & Caicos Islands. Pakistan will open their campaign against the Turks & Caicos Islands on April 9, face Mauritania on April 12, and conclude their group matches against the hosts on April 16. This historic participation reflects the steady progress of women’s football in Pakistan and signals the beginning of a new era for the national side. The FIFA Series provides a valuable platform for Pakistani players to gain international exposure and compete at a higher level. PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani expressed confidence in the team’s future, highlighting that his leadership aims to bring positive growth and long-term development to football in the country. Squad: Goalkeepers: Zeeyana Jivraj, Nisha Ashraf, Arzoo Hazara Defenders: Isra Khan, Anaya Ahmad, Anmol Hira, Kayla Siddiqui, Karissa Jivraj, Alia Sadiq, Maria Khan, Nizalia Siddiqi Midfielders: Suha Hirani, Rameen Fareed, Layla Banaras, Sanah Mehdi, Zehmena Malik Forwards: Mariam Mahmood, Aqsa Mushtaq, Aiman Altaf, Nadia Khan, Maryam Zehri, Azwa Chaudhry