“PFF Normalisation Committee Faces Uncertainties Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Against Jordan”

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) Normalisation Committee (NC) is facing challenges in confirming the dates for the upcoming national camp with less than 15 days left for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Jordan. The tie is set for March 21 at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium, and the PFF NC is keen on retaining British coach Stephen Constantine for the game.

Despite a virtual meeting between the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and the PFF NC, concerns remain unresolved. The PFF NC spokesperson Yashal Mazhar expressed disappointment in the meeting’s outcome, pointing out unexplained issues with the stadium’s facilities.

Given the holy month of Ramadan’s fasting schedule, hosting the match under floodlights would have been beneficial for attendance. However, plans for floodlights and seating upgrades have faced delays, raising doubts about the team’s readiness for the upcoming game.

Constantine is set to continue as head coach for the Jordan games, with efforts to bring in overseas players like Easah Sulaiman. The PFF NC denied financial constraints for the delayed camp setup, indicating a focus on player readiness and performance.

The Jinnah Stadium’s condition, worsened by hosting the National Kabaddi Championship, poses another challenge. The PFF NC is concerned about the pitch’s health, especially with the impending World Cup qualifier.

While the PSB has promised upgrades to meet international standards, the delay in implementing them has cast uncertainty over the venue’s readiness. Despite past cooperation to host qualifiers, Pakistan still lacks a top-tier football stadium, highlighting ongoing challenges in infrastructure development.

As the clock ticks down to the crucial World Cup qualifier, the PFF NC faces a race against time to ensure player preparedness and venue adequacy. The upcoming match against Jordan carries significant importance for Pakistan’s football aspirations, highlighting the need for a swift resolution to the current obstacles.

Author
Recent Posts

Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.