During all my years as a football enthusiast, the match between Pakistan and India marked the first time I saw the entire nation swap their usual cricket match or political commentary for football on their TV screens.
The thrill among Pakistani football fans hit an all-time high as the Men in Green clashed with their long-time rivals for the first time in over half a decade. The national football team was a trending topic on Twitter and the match attracted an unprecedented viewership.
Obstacles Faced by Pakistan Football Team:
The Men in Green have faced severe obstacles in recent years, including a FIFA ban in 2018 due to third-party interference, followed by another ban in 2021 for over a year on similar grounds.
Pakistan’s ban was lifted in July 2022, and since then, the Green Shirts have only participated in six matches, including two friendly games against Maldives and Nepal, the 4-nation tournament in Africa, and the recent match against India.
The significant 4-0 defeat to India in the opening game of the SAFF Championship 2023 was a harsh blow, as was the ensuing criticism from their own fans.
Uninformed followers were quick to disparage the national team for their disappointing performance, overlooking the considerable challenges the team faced to make it onto the field.
The national team arrived at Bengaluru, the venue for the SAFF Championship, merely hours before the high-intensity clash due to multiple delays. Given my experience with football (even though it is limited to friendly 5-a-side matches), it’s virtually impossible to perform optimally without adequate training and rest. The national team was unfairly expected to deliver results against a robust Indian team despite facing adverse circumstances.
Now is the time for Pakistani football fans to rally behind the Men in Green rather than disparage them on social media. Here are several reasons why the team needs support now more than ever:
Morale Boosting
The support of devoted fans can markedly elevate the players’ spirits. Players gain pride, motivation, and confidence from witnessing their fans cheering them on. This positive ambiance can enhance performance on the field, as confidence is a critical element in football.
Building Unity
Football has the ability to unite people, fostering a sense of national pride. Fans’ support can encourage a spirit of unity and camaraderie among citizens, extending beyond the football field and positively influencing society at large.
Attracting Support and Attention
Success in international football, a globally popular sport, can garner the attention and support of various stakeholders. A passionate and engaged fan base makes the Pakistan football team more appealing to sponsors, broadcasters, and potential investors. This could lead to better resources, infrastructure, and development programs for the team.
Inspiring Future Generations
The support shown towards the national team can inspire young football enthusiasts to chase their dreams of playing professional football. Backed by its fans, the Pakistan football team can serve as a motivation for aspiring players to strive harder and have faith in their potential.
Achieving the Ultimate Goal
The Pakistan football team’s current prime objective is to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 through the AFC qualifiers. The Shaheens are slated to participate in the first round of the qualifiers in October, with the draw occurring on July 27.
The team’s primary focus will be to win and progress to the second round, where they will face Asia’s leading teams. This victory would not only change the direction of Pakistan football but also chart the future course of the sport in the country. A unified fan base can aid the Men in Green in achieving this crucial goal