Pakistan Aims to Usher in a New Era of Progress and Stability
The landscape of women’s football in Pakistan is poised for transformation, thanks to the ambitious plans of the newly elected Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) president, Syed Mohsin Gilani. With a vision to increase female participation in the sport, Gilani aims to elevate the profile of women’s football in a country where cricket has long dominated. The national women’s team, which has faced challenges in recent years, is now looking to tap into talent from the diaspora, including players like Layla Banaras and Mariam Mahmood, who are eager to make their mark on the international stage.
Reviving Women’s Football in Pakistan
The PFF has faced significant hurdles, including a suspension from FIFA that limited the national women’s team’s activities. Over the past two years, the team has played only three matches, highlighting the urgent need for revitalization. Gilani’s leadership marks a new chapter, with a clear focus on promoting women’s football at all levels. He emphasizes the importance of mass participation, stating, “We want to promote mass participation of girls in football.” This commitment aims to inspire a new generation of female athletes in a country where football has not traditionally been a popular choice among women.
To bolster the national team, the PFF is actively scouting for talent beyond Pakistan’s borders. Players like Layla Banaras, who made history as the first South Asian woman to play for Birmingham City, are now representing Pakistan. Layla, who recently debuted for the national team, expressed optimism about the future of women’s football in Pakistan, stating, “Hopefully that’s going to change.” Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring female footballers in the country.
Emerging Talents and Their Stories
Joining Layla in the national squad is Mariam Mahmood, a former West Bromwich player. Mariam’s journey into football was not without challenges, as she faced cultural barriers that discouraged her from pursuing the sport. Despite this, she remains determined to follow her passion. “You can’t let culture hold you back; you have to follow your heart,” she asserts. Mariam’s enthusiasm for representing Pakistan reflects the growing desire among young women to break stereotypes and pursue careers in sports.
Both Layla and Mariam are part of a broader movement within the PFF to include players from the diaspora. Gilani welcomes anyone eligible to play for Pakistan, regardless of their location. This inclusive approach aims to strengthen the national team while also fostering local talent. The federation is committed to developing women’s football clubs and establishing a dedicated women’s football department to nurture talent at home.
Future Plans for Women’s Football
Looking ahead, the PFF has ambitious plans to expand women’s football across Pakistan. Gilani highlighted the need for more clubs and competitions specifically for women and girls. “We want to take it all over the country,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of grassroots development. Layla echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for increased awareness and accessibility to football for young girls. She believes that football should be integrated into schools and local communities to encourage participation.
The federation’s initiatives aim to create a supportive environment for aspiring female footballers, particularly those from South Asian Muslim backgrounds. Layla envisions a future where more girls enter academies and progress to represent Pakistan on the international stage. The PFF’s commitment to fostering talent and promoting women’s football is a crucial step toward changing perceptions and inspiring the next generation of female athletes in Pakistan.
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