ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistani-New Zealander footballer Haris Zeb will be the first player of Pakistani origin to represent Auckland City FC in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The 23-year-old left winger has signed the agreement with the club and has started pre-season training with the team. He previously played for Birkenhead United. The tournament will be played from 14 June-13 July 2025 across the USA.
Born to Pakistani parents in New Zealand on May 15, 2001, Zeb holds dual citizenship, making him also eligible to represent Pakistan internationally. According to the media reports, he was called up to the Pakistan national team for the 2023 Four Nations Cup in Mauritius but missed the event due to injury.
The left-winger has already informed the Pakistan Football Federation of his availability for future national team selections.
Auckland City FC secured its berth in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by winning the 2024 OFC Champions League. The club will compete in the expanded 32-team 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled to be played in the United States.
In the group stage, the club will face European powerhouse Bayern Munich, Argentine giants Boca Juniors, and Portugal’s Benfica.
Zeb has played for several New Zealand clubs, including Miramar Rangers and Christchurch United. His contract with Auckland City marks a significant step in his career as he prepares to play on the biggest arena in club football. The young footballer remains confident of bringing Pakistan football to the global stage.
Football in Pakistan
Football is among the most popular team sports in Pakistan, together with cricket and field hockey. Football in general is run by the Pakistan Football Federation.
The origin of the sport in Pakistan can be traced back to the mid-nineteenth century when football was introduced by British soldiers during the British era.
