Male' Maldives: Pakistan ended a 74-year wait for an international football tournament title on Wednesday, defeating Afghanistan 2-0 in the final of the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament at the National Stadium to secure a landmark victory for the men's national team.
The triumph marks Pakistan's first-ever stand-alone international tournament title and the first time the national team has won a tournament final outright. Their only previous international honour came in 1952 when they shared the Asian Quadrangular title under a league format.
Pakistan's breakthrough moment came in the 24th minute when forward Shayek Dost produced a stunning overhead kick to put his side ahead. The goal followed a loose Afghan clearance and a misdirected cross that fell kindly for Shayek, who adjusted brilliantly before executing an acrobatic finish into the back of the net.
Afghanistan made a strong start to the contest and tested Pakistan's defence early on. However, the Shaheens gradually found their rhythm, with Otis Khan proving influential down the left flank and helping drive Pakistan's attacking efforts.
The Afghan side nearly found an equaliser before halftime, striking the crossbar in injury time, but Pakistan maintained their slender lead heading into the break.
Pakistan continued to press after the restart, with Adil Nabi coming close to doubling the advantage when his effort rattled the crossbar. Afghanistan pushed forward in search of a leveller, but Pakistan's defence remained disciplined, with goalkeeper Saqib Hanif playing a key role in organising the back line.
Substitute Harun Hamid eventually sealed the victory deep into stoppage time. The forward beat his marker with a sharp turn before calmly finishing to secure Pakistan's third consecutive win of the tournament and confirm their place as champions.
Pakistan reached the final unbeaten, including an earlier 2-0 victory over Afghanistan during the tournament's round-robin stage, underlining their dominance throughout the competition.
Head coach Norberto Solano praised his team's determination and development, describing the title as an important step forward ahead of upcoming Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns.
"We proved that we are a strong group of boys coming back after the Bangladesh draw. They are happy, and I am so glad for them and for the Pakistani nation," Solano said. "This brings back belief in football. They have amazing talent. We have to continue this because we have more challenges in September, October and November. We must prepare well before Asian competitions begin next year."
Pakistan captain Abdullah Iqbal dedicated the historic triumph to the country's football supporters.
"We are very happy with the team first and foremost. This one is for the fans," Iqbal said after the match. "We have worked so hard for the fans and wanted to give something back. They supported us through very difficult times, and that's the most important thing for us."
Pakistan Football Federation president Syed Mohsen Gilani also hailed the achievement, describing it as a significant milestone and a "new beginning" for football in the country.
The victory represents a defining moment for Pakistan football, ending decades of waiting and providing renewed optimism as the national team looks ahead to a busy international calendar and future continental competitions.
