Harun Hamid, the name that resonates with every Pakistani football enthusiast today. Scoring the historic goal against Cambodia, this rising football star is shaping the future of football in Pakistan. In an exclusive sit-down with Abdul Rehman Shahbaz from The Sports Side, Hamid shared insights about his journey, the pivotal game against Cambodia, and his aspirations for the future of Pakistan football.
Harun Hamid: Scoring the Historic Goal
Recalling the dream-come-true moment of scoring the winning goal for Pakistan, Harun expressed, “When the ball came over, I thought if I take a touch, the defender is going to be on me. So I just hit it first time and Alhamdulillah, it went in.”
The Electric Atmosphere at Home
The sensation of playing in front of a roaring crowd of over 11,000 Pakistani fans was overwhelming for Harun. “They were the fans non-stop, chanting for us, motivating us. It felt like we had that extra man,” he reminisced.
Guidance from Coach Stephen Constantine
Stephen Constantine’s entry as the coach just 12 days before the crucial game was transformational. With his tactical acumen, he revamped the entire approach of the team. Harun highlighted that Stefan “changed the football in Pakistan, with organization and structure on and off the pitch.”
Also Read: Stephen Constantine’s Vision for Pakistan’s Football Future: Preparing for the World Cup Qualifiers
Harun Hamid: Journey from QPR Academy to Pakistan’s Limelight
Growing up in England and joining the Queens Park Rangers (QPR) Academy at just 11, Harun developed a robust foundation in football. His stint at QPR taught him to compete against top-notch players, sharpening his skills and elevating his game.
The Vision for Pakistan Football
Harun is hopeful about the future of football in Pakistan. Expressing his dreams, he says, “It’s only the beginning. I feel like we’re turning the corner now to a new page in Pakistan football.”
Bonding in the Team: Local and Overseas Players
The camaraderie among the team members, including the overseas players like Otis Khan and Isa Suleiman, has been phenomenal. Harun stated, “We gel as brothers… It’s a real good team spirit at the moment.”
Club Allegiances and Opportunities
When it comes to club loyalties, Harun has a soft spot for Barcelona. Addressing the opportunities knocking at his door, he hinted, “There have been a few [clubs approaching], but we’ll wait and see what other opportunities come up.”
Harun Hamid: A Message to Young Aspirants
For the budding talents of Pakistan, Harun’s message is simple and powerful: “Keep firm on Islam and never give up on your dreams. You’ve got to work, and when the opportunity comes, you’ve got to be ready to take it.”
Conclusion:
Harun Hamid’s remarkable journey from the fields of QPR Academy to becoming the beacon of hope for Pakistan football is a testament to his tenacity, talent, and commitment. His invaluable insights during the interview not only shed light on his personal evolution but also highlight the broader aspirations and challenges of Pakistan football. As Harun continues to make waves on the international stage, his story stands as an inspiration for countless budding footballers across the nation. With players like him taking the lead, the future of Pakistan football seems brighter than ever.
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