Pakistan Earn First Point in Asian Cup Qualifiers

News Desk 

Islamabad: Pakistan secured their first point in the third round of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup after being held to a goalless draw by Afghanistan at the Jinnah Stadium  on Thursday.

Despite dominating much of the match, Pakistan failed to make their chances count, with Otis Khan missing a crucial penalty midway through the second half as his effort sailed over the bar.

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Head coach Nolberto Solano’s men looked the stronger side throughout the encounter against a fatigued Afghan team that arrived in Islamabad less than 24 hours before kickoff due to visa delays.

The draw leaves both Pakistan and Afghanistan with a single point each in Group ‘E’, trailing joint-leaders Syria and Myanmar by five points. Syria were scheduled to face Myanmar later on Thursday in a top-of-the-table clash between two sides with maximum points from their opening two fixtures.

Only the group winner will qualify directly for the AFC Asian Cup finals to be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/pcb-announces-tickets-for-pak-vs-south-africa-series/

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced ticket prices for the upcoming Pakistan–South Africa white-ball series, featuring three ODIs and three T20 Internationals scheduled for later this month.

For the ODI series, tickets will range from Rs400 to Rs3,000, while VIP tickets for the T20 series will be available at Rs800. Ticket sales will open soon online and at selected outlets to ensure smooth access for fans.

All three ODIs will be hosted at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, known for its energetic crowd and lively atmosphere. Faisalabad is set to witness its first major international series in several years, with fans expected to turn out in large numbers.

The T20 series will follow from October 28 to November 1. The first T20 match will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the second and third matches will take place at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.