The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) is gearing up for the second round of qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with an exciting list of probables announced for the upcoming matches against Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan. The Green Shirts are set to play an away match against Saudi Arabia on November 16, followed by a home fixture against Tajikistan at Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad on November 21. The training camp is scheduled to commence on November 4 and will continue until November 13 in Islamabad.
The Pakistan squad (Probables) for these crucial fixtures has been unveiled, showcasing a mix of experienced and emerging talent in various positions:
Goalkeepers:
Salman Ul Haq, Usman Ali, and Hassan Ali.
Defenders:
Mamoon Moosa Khan, Mohibullah, Muhammad Sohail, Junaid Shah, Ali Khan Niazi, Rao Umar Hayat, Haseeb Khan, Umar Javed, M. Saddam, and Muhammad Hamza Munir.
Midfielders:
Alamgir Ghazi, Ali Uzair, Rajab Ali, Zaid Umer, Abdul Razzaq, M Zahid Shah, Ali Zafar, and Imran Kiyani.
Forwards:
Shayak Dost, Moin Ahmed, Fareed Khan, Waleed Khan, Mohammad Waheed, Nizamuddin, Hamza Ahmed, Samnan, and Adeel Younas.
Also Read: Historic Victory: Pakistan Clinch their first-ever victory in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Imran Keyani Joins Pakistan Football Squad for FIFA Qualifier Round 2
Imran Keyani, a British Asian footballer, has joined the Pakistan national football team as a diaspora player for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier Round 2. With a rich footballing background, including stints with Slough Town Football Club and representation of England in the schoolboy category, Keyani’s inclusion promises to be a significant boost for the Pakistan football team. Despite facing stereotypes and prejudices due to his ethnicity, Keyani aims to be a trailblazer, demonstrating that success in football knows no bounds. His experience and determination make him a valuable addition to the squad for the upcoming qualifiers.
PFF Announces Probables: Abdullah Shah’s Exclusion Sparks Fan Concern
One of the most significant talking points surrounding the Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) announcement of probables for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier Round 2 is the omission of Abdullah Shah, a player whose versatility and skill have made him a fan favorite. Fans are expressing their concerns and frustrations over his absence, especially given the recent setback with Easah Suleiman, another key diaspora player.
Easah Suleiman, who was seen as a crucial asset to the team, is currently sidelined due to a two-month injury. With his absence leaving a notable void, many expected Abdullah Shah to step into this role, or at least be called as a backup to Mamoon- who’s most likely be replacing Easah. However, the PFF’s decision to leave him out of the probable list has left fans puzzled and disheartened. Some question whether the exclusion might result from an alleged false talk against the PFF normalization committee by the center back.
But, according to sources, the decision to exclude Abdullah is solely Stephan’s decision.
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