Pakistan to make historic debut in AFC Futsal Asian cup qualifiers

Pakistan, June 23 -- Pakistan is set to achieve a major milestone in its sports history as the national futsal team prepares to compete in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers for the very first time. The much-anticipated tournament will kick off with the official draw on June 26 at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur.

A total of 32 countries, including Pakistan, will be divided into eight groups - seven groups of four teams and one group of three - for the qualifiers. The matches will take place in a centralized league format from September 20 to 24, offering teams a fair and intense competition structure.

Pakistan has been placed in Pot 4 alongside other debutants and lower-ranked teams. Since Pakistan is currently unranked in the FIFA Futsal Men's World Rankings, these qualifiers will provide a valuable opportunity to gain international experience and earn official ranking points.

The road to the finals will be tough. Only the group winners and the seven best second-placed teams will qualify for the 18th edition of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Finals, set to be held in Indonesia in January 2026. Top futsal nations like Iran, Japan, Thailand, and Uzbekistan are also competing, promising a high level of competition.

Despite the tough challenge ahead, the Pakistani squad is aiming to pull off some surprises. Their goal is to build a strong foundation for the country's presence in Asian futsal and pave the way for long-term growth in the sport.

The group draw, scheduled for 3 PM Malaysia time on June 26, has already generated excitement among fans and sports officials in Pakistan. All eyes are on the national team as they gear up for their first step onto the continental futsal stage.