Pakistanis are rejoicing after a week of back-to-back wins for the country and while everyone has their eyes on Islamabad, our women’s football team have pulled off a miracle halfway across the world.
At the FIFA Series tournament in the Ivory Coast, the girls in green made history by pummelling their opponents from the Turks and Caicos and securing a massive eight-to-none victory.
Congratulations began to pour in from proud fans, including President Asif Ali Zardari, who called the win a “moment of national pride”. Others had similar messages of support for the team.
A user shared footage of the game’s fourth goal, where Mariam Mahmood kisses the team’s emblem on her shirt after powering the ball right into the opposing team’s net.
Another couldn’t believe the final score, posting it in all caps for the world to see.
The team’s technical ability and prowess on the field was praised.
Some netizens felt they could give a challenge to Pakistan’s male athletes. Others felt the men’s football squad could even learn a thing or two from the victors.
One fan was upset our team wouldn’t be playing in the South Asian Football Federation’s Women’s Championship this year when the side is the strongest it’s ever been. The tournament will be held in India and Indian sources report Pakistan has opted to skip due to strained ties — particularly in sports — with its eastern neighbour.
Pakistan are due to play Mauritania in their next game on Sunday followed by a bout with hosts the Ivory Coast on Thursday. We’ll be keeping an eye on their progress. Go girls!
