ISLAMABAD: In a stirring finale to their AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifying journey, Pakistan’s women’s football team wrapped up their campaign in style, defeating Kyrgyzstan 2-1 on Saturday at the Sport Centre Kelapa Dua Stadium in Tangerang, Indonesia.
Though their dream of qualification slipped away early in the tournament, the Green Shirts bowed out with heads held high, securing two victories out of three — each against higher-ranked opponents — and leaving a trail of inspiration in their wake.
The hero of the day was none other than forward Maryam Mahmood, who lit up the pitch with a dazzling first-half brace. She wasted no time in putting Pakistan ahead, netting the opener in the 4th minute with a sharp finish. Just over 20 minutes later, she doubled the lead with a composed strike from the penalty spot, leaving Kyrgyzstan stunned.
Fending off late pressure
While Kyrgyzstan’s Alina Gaparova narrowed the gap with a goal in the 69th minute, Pakistan dug in with resolve, fending off late pressure to seal the win. The statistics painted a picture of a team on the rise: 16 shots to Kyrgyzstan’s 10, eight corners earned, and a commanding 48 dangerous attacks — all signs of Pakistan’s growing confidence and attacking flair.
Ranked 157th in the world, Pakistan’s triumph over Kyrgyzstan (ranked 136th) and Indonesia (ranked 95th) has sent ripples through the region, signaling the emergence of a side no longer content with just competing — but determined to challenge.
The campaign
Their campaign began on a rough note with a heavy 0-8 loss to Chinese Taipei, but what followed was a remarkable turnaround. The players regrouped, refocused, and delivered performances that not only restored pride but also laid down a marker for the future of women’s football in Pakistan.
With Maryam Mahmood’s brilliance leading the way and a squad brimming with potential, the team may have exited the qualifiers — but they’ve entered the conversation. And for Pakistan’s women’s football, that’s a win that goes beyond the final score line.
