Pakistan Football team confident ahead of AFC Asian Cup Qualifier

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Mar, 2026) Pakistani footballers Mohibullah Afridi and Waqar Baloch have expressed confidence ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Myanmar, saying that the team is well-prepared for the upcoming challenge.

Speaking to the media here at the Pakistan sports Complex on Saturday, Afridi said the team’s preparations had progressed positively in recent days.

He noted that players were responding well to training sessions and benefiting from the guidance of the coaching staff.

“We are improving with every camp and getting valuable game time. Our previous opponents were strong, and Myanmar is also a tough side, but we are well-prepared. We will work hard to deliver an even better performance,” he said.

Afridi also highlighted the challenges of playing in empty stadiums, emphasizing the importance of crowd support in football. He urged fans to continue backing the team, assuring that players would give their best to achieve a positive result.

Meanwhile, Baloch praised head coach Nolberto Solano, describing him as an experienced figure who has created a supportive and relaxed environment within the squad.

He said the coach is focused on developing local talent, particularly after selecting players through domestic competitions such as the National Challenge Cup.

Baloch further credited the team’s improved fitness levels to trainer Raiyan Abbasi, noting that physical conditioning has been a key area of progress.

Commenting on the competition, Baloch acknowledged the strength of teams in Pakistan’s group, including Syria and Afghanistan, but remained optimistic.

He pointed out that Pakistan had performed well in previous matches, including draws against Afghanistan, and expressed hope that the team could secure a win against Myanmar this time. “With better preparation and growing confidence, we are hopeful of a positive outcome,” he said.