ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): An official from the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has confirmed that efforts are underway to resolve visa-related issues delaying the arrival of the Afghanistan national football team ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier.
The much-anticipated Pakistan vs Afghanistan football clash is scheduled for October 9 in Islamabad, but uncertainty looms as the Afghan players have not yet been issued visas, Geo News reported.
According to sources, the Afghan team was required to reach Islamabad by October 7, two days before the match, but delays have disrupted their travel schedule.
The Afghan Federation submitted visa applications between September 25 and 27 at the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul. However, an internet blackout in Kabul slowed down communication and caused delays in processing.
PFF sources said they only received visa reference numbers in the first week of October, after which urgent requests were made to the concerned authorities to fast-track the process.
Officials remain hopeful that visas will be issued by Tuesday morning, ensuring the team’s timely participation.
“This qualifier is very important for the growth of football in both countries,” PFF Acting Secretary Shahid Khokhar stated, expressing optimism that the matter will be resolved quickly.
