Pakistan secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the Maldives in the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament, ending a 961-day wait for an international win and providing a major boost to the national team’s confidence.
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The triumph was significant for several reasons. It marked Pakistan’s first international victory in more than two and a half years, their first win over the Maldives since the 1991 South Asian Federation Games final, and the first victory under head coach Nolberto Solano.
Highlights of #PakistanFootball‘s 3-0 over Maldives in the Diamond Jubilee International Tournament.
Umar Nawaz, Abdul Samad Arshad and Harun Hamid end the MNT’s nearly 3 year long wait for a win.
Yousuf Butt also brilliant as goalkeeper! #MDVvPAK
Video via YES TV Maldives pic.twitter.com/aac83GNXs2
— FootballPakistan.com (@FootballPak) June 4, 2026
Pakistan controlled much of the first half, enjoying greater possession and territorial advantage. However, despite creating pressure, the Shaheens were unable to break the deadlock before halftime. The Maldives remained dangerous on counterattacks, ensuring the match stayed goalless at the interval.
The breakthrough came early in the second half when Hayyan Khattak unleashed a powerful shot that the Maldives goalkeeper failed to hold. Umer Nawaz reacted quickly to the rebound and slotted the ball home to give Pakistan a deserved lead.
With the Maldives forced to push forward in search of an equaliser, Pakistan maintained their defensive discipline while looking to exploit spaces on the counter. Captain Abdullah Iqbal praised his team’s focus, stressing the importance of maintaining balance after taking the lead.
Pakistan doubled their advantage in the 83rd minute through substitute Abdul Samad Arshad, who calmly finished past the goalkeeper after a well-worked move. Just four minutes later, another substitute, Harun Hamid, effectively sealed the contest when his effort took a deflection and looped into the net.
After the match, Solano commended his players for executing the game plan despite difficult playing conditions and a challenging opponent. He noted that patience and defensive organisation had been key factors in securing the result.
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The emphatic victory gives Pakistan valuable momentum heading into the remainder of the tournament and offers renewed optimism for the national side.