Pakistan beat Afghanistan 2-0 in the final of the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament at the National Stadium, ending its 74-year wait for an international football tournament title.
The victory marked Pakistan’s first-ever stand-alone international crown and the first time the men’s national team has won a tournament final outright.
Pakistan took the lead in the 24th minute through Shayek Dost, who produced a stunning overhead kick after capitalizing on a loose clearance.
Afghanistan responded strongly and nearly equalized before halftime, but their effort struck the crossbar, allowing Pakistan to carry a 1-0 lead into the break.
The Shaheens continued to create chances in the second half, with Adil Nabi hitting the bar, while Afghanistan pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Pakistan’s defence, led by goalkeeper Saqib Hanif, remained solid under pressure.
Substitute Harun Hamid sealed the victory in stoppage time with a composed finish after beating his marker, sparking celebrations among Pakistani supporters.
Pakistan remained unbeaten throughout the tournament and secured the title with three consecutive wins.
Head coach Norberto Solano praised his team’s resilience and progress, saying the triumph would boost confidence ahead of next year’s Asian Cup and World Cup qualifying campaigns.
