Karachi: In the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers round 2, Saudi Arabia defeated Pakistan by four goals. The opening match of Group G played on Thursday night at Al-Fath Stadium was historic for the Pakistan football team, as it was the first time they played in the second round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Before the start of the match, rain poured down on the national team’s aspirations, but despite the strong performance against a tough opponent, the Pakistani team missed several opportunities to score goals.
The first half ended with a 0-1 victory for the winning team, with the goal scored by Center Forward Al-Shahri in the sixth minute of play. Saudi Arabia’s second goal was also scored by Al-Shahri in the 48th minute through a penalty kick.
Abdul Rahman Gharib scored a goal two minutes before the end of the match, and in the final moments, the Saudi team scored another goal to defeat Pakistan four to zero.
Pakistan ranks 193rd in FIFA’s world ranking, while Saudi Arabia is in 57th position. Pakistan will play their next match against Tajikistan on November 21 at Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad.
Pakistan secured a place in the second stage of FIFA World Cup qualifiers for the first time by defeating Cambodia.