Pakistan Announces Squad for FIFA ASEAN Cup

News Desk
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has officially announced a 23-member national squad for the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia, while head coach Nolberto Solano faces a temporary delay in joining the side due to visa complications.
According to official sources, the former Newcastle United star applied under an incorrect visa category, prompting a reapplication that caused procedural delays. Consequently, assistant coaches Titus Bramble and Walid Javaid have successfully managed the ongoing rigorous training camp in Islamabad.
Solano is now scheduled to rendezvous with the traveling contingent directly in Indonesia ahead of the tournament, which is slated to run from September 25 to October 5.
The newly unveiled squad exhibits a balanced blend of youth and experience, to be captained by defender Abdullah Iqbal. Notably, veteran forward Kaleemullah makes a celebrated return to the national setup, bringing his wealth of international exposure back to the forward line.
Another key inclusion is teenage sensation Abdul Samad, the Pakistan U-17 captain and talented midfielder from Swat, who recently cemented his rising status by signing a prestigious two-year professional contract with Azerbaijani champions Qarabag FK after previously showcasing his potential in UEFA-affiliated youth setups.
This squad selection marks a crucial milestone for Pakistani football as the nation seeks to make a formidable impact on the regional and international stage.
Blending foreign-based talent with domestic prospects reflects the PFF’s strategic intent to elevate competitive standards and build a resilient team capable of enduring high-pressure fixtures against established regional powerhouses during the ASEAN competition.
Following the conclusion of the Islamabad training camp, the squad will depart for Indonesia where head coach Nolberto Solano will officially assume command on the ground.
The team management aims to utilize the remaining days before the opening fixture on September 25 to finalize tactical formations and ensure seamless cohesion among the overseas and locally based players.