The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has confirmed its participation in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers following FIFA’s decision to lift its suspension.
This participation marks the return of Green Shirts to international football after a prolonged period of uncertainty.
The national team has been placed in Group E alongside Syria, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, with qualifiers set to follow a home-and-away format.
The Men in Green will begin their much-awaited campaign on March 25 with an away fixture against Syria in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
FIFA lifted the suspension after the PFF successfully implemented constitutional amendments, which were formally approved during a Congress meeting in Lahore.
This development restores Pakistan’s eligibility for international competitions, ending speculation about the future of the national team in the sport.
The amendments, in line with FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) recommendations, have paved the way for Pakistan’s competitive return.
Meanwhile, Stephen Constantine has been reappointed as the head coach for the upcoming Syria match. Having previously managed the team from 2023 and 2024,
He led Pakistan to a historic victory over Cambodia in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His earlier tenure also saw Pakistan progress to the second round of the qualifiers for the first time.
The PFF is expected to announce the final squad and training schedule soon. Pakistan’s first match in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers is set for March 25 in Saudi Arabia.
