For the first time ever, Pakistan will be stepping onto the Asian futsal stage as it gears up to compete in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers later this year in Malaysia.
The qualifiers, which officially kick off with a draw ceremony at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur on June 26, will feature 32 nations vying for a spot in Asia’s top futsal showdown.
Pakistan, which has never taken part in this event before, has been placed in Pot 4 — a group reserved for debutants and lower-ranked teams. The seeding is based on the latest FIFA Futsal Men’s World Rankings, and Pakistan currently does not hold an official rank. For the team, this is an opportunity to earn valuable international experience and gain ranking points for future competitions.
Under the format, the 32 teams will be divided into eight groups — seven groups will have four teams each, while one group will have three. Matches will be played in a centralised league format from September 20 to September 24.
The stakes are high: only the top team in each group and the seven best second-placed sides will make it through to the main event — the 18th edition of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Finals, which Indonesia will host in January 2026.
The competition will be fierce, with futsal heavyweights like Iran (ranked World No. 5), Thailand (11), Japan (13), and Uzbekistan (23) in the mix. These teams have been regular contenders since the tournament began in 1999.
For Pakistan, it’s all about making a solid first impression and laying the groundwork for a stronger futsal presence in Asia in the years ahead.
Fans and players alike are eagerly awaiting the draw on June 26 at 3 PM Malaysia time, as the team prepares to make history on the continental stage.
