Mohsen Gilani’s first year brings renewed hope for Pakistan football

After spending much of the past decade mired in administrative disputes, international suspensions and prolonged

After spending much of the past decade mired in administrative disputes, international suspensions and prolonged uncertainty, Pakistan football is showing signs of a significant resurgence under the leadership of Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani.

For years, the sport struggled to overcome governance challenges that severely hindered its development. Between 2015 and 2025, internal conflicts, legal battles and repeated suspensions by FIFA disrupted domestic competitions, restricted international participation and stalled progress at almost every level of the game. The extended tenure of the FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee further contributed to a period of stagnation that left players, officials and supporters frustrated.

Gilani’s election as PFF president in May 2025 is widely viewed as a turning point for the sport. Within a year of assuming office, his administration moved swiftly to restore Pakistan’s standing within the international football community by strengthening engagement with FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) and several foreign football bodies.

A key indicator of this renewed momentum has been Pakistan’s return to regular international competition. During the past year, national teams featured in a wide range of regional and continental events, including the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers, AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers, SAFF U17 Championship, FIFA Women’s Series 2026, AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers, SAFF Men’s and Women’s Futsal Championships and the FIFAe World Cup 2026 qualification campaign.

The federation also achieved several notable milestones. Pakistan established its first-ever men’s and women’s national futsal teams and launched a dedicated FIFAe department, enabling the country to participate in international esports football competitions for the first time.

Women’s football emerged as one of the most encouraging success stories of the year. The national women’s team registered a historic 8-0 victory during its debut appearance in the FIFA Women’s Series and delivered competitive performances against higher-ranked opponents. Youth football also returned to the international calendar, providing young players with much-needed exposure after years of limited opportunities.

Off the field, the PFF intensified efforts to expand international cooperation through agreements and partnerships focused on coach education, referee development, youth exchanges, infrastructure enhancement and professional league planning. Pakistan also secured its highest-ever representation on FIFA and AFC committees, strengthening its presence in global football decision-making forums.

The federation has simultaneously advanced several development initiatives, including FIFA Arena projects, plans for the country’s first National Football Training Centre and groundwork for the launch of Pakistan’s first professional football league.

In another potentially landmark development, discussions are reportedly progressing regarding a historic visit by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. If finalized, it would mark the first visit by a FIFA president to Pakistan and could further boost long-term football development efforts in the country.

While challenges related to governance reforms and institutional strengthening remain, Pakistan football appears to have regained momentum. After years of instability and missed opportunities, the sport is once again looking outward with renewed confidence, optimism and a clearer vision for sustainable growth.