Islamabad: Every Match Is a Final, Reaching the Semi-Finals Is the Primary Goal – Pakistan National Football Team Head Coach Norberto Solano

Pakistan men’s national football team head coach Norberto Solano has stated that the team’s primary objective in the SAFF Championship 2026 is to reach the semi-finals, emphasizing that every match must be treated like a final.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad on Monday evening, Solano said the competition would be tough, but the team is determined and confident. Pakistan will face India and the Maldives in the group stage. He described the Pakistan-India clash as a major rivalry, similar to the football rivalries between Peru and Chile.

Solano explained that diaspora players will not be available for the opening matches due to the absence of a FIFA international window. However, he stressed that the team would make no excuses and has full confidence in local talent.

He added that defensive strength would be the team’s primary strategy and emphasized the importance of maintaining concentration throughout all 90 minutes.

Solano also welcomed the planned launch of a professional football league in Pakistan next year, saying it would help improve players’ fitness and strengthen the domestic football structure.

Pakistan will begin its SAFF Championship campaign against India on Thursday.

Reporter Ali Hassan