Working on policy to promote football and women’s sports in Pakistan: PM Shehbaz

National women's side finished second in four-nation cup on Thursday

By Web Desk
January 20, 2023
The four-nation cup was the second international event of the Pakistan after FIFA lifted the ban on PFF— Reuters 

Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif said the government is working on policy to promote football and women’s sports in Pakistan after the national women's team finished second in the four-nation cup.

Pakistan women's drew against Saudi Arabia, who were crowned champions, in their last match of the tournament to finish second with four points at the Prince Saud bin Jalawi Stadium, Al-Khobar on Thursday.

Taking to Twitter, the premier congratulated Saudi Arabia and lauded the national side for their performance.

"Congratulations to Saudi Arabia for winning this tournament and proud of our Women’s National Team finishing 2nd. Special congratulations to Maria Khan for scoring this spectacular goal. We are working on policy to promote football and women’s sports in Pakistan," he wrote.

In the first half, Saudi Arabia took a 1-0 lead. The hosts won a free-kick inside their own half and it was put into Pakistan's half, which was anticipated by Pakistan's defender but Saudi number nine Albandari Mubarak was quick and sharp as she snatched a loose ball and ran into the box to place the ball into the right corner.

However, Pakistan equalised after a great fightback. Pakistan won a free kick in the 65th minute. Everyone in the box waited for a lofted cross from Pakistan skipper Maria Khan, but she fancied her chances from distance and opted for a shot at goal, which the Saudi Arabia goalkeeper couldn't stop as it ended in the back of the net.

Earlier, Pakistan lost to Mauritius 2-1 in their second match of the tournament. Before that, they defeated Comoros 1-0 in their opening encounter.

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