Missed Penalty Costs Pakistan in Goalless Draw Against Afghanistan – Asian Cup Qualifiers

Pakistan’s dream of a big win in the Asian Cup Qualifiers faded after a missed penalty against Afghanistan. The tense game ended 0–0 on Thursday night. Both teams showed solid defense but struggled to score.
Pakistan started strong and controlled early possession. Midfielders Saqib Hanif and Rahis Nabi kept the ball moving smoothly. Forward Imran Khan’s quick runs tested Afghanistan’s defense. However, chances to score stayed rare as Afghan defenders stood firm.

Missed Chance Changes the Game

In the 68th minute, Pakistan earned a penalty after a handball inside the Afghan box. Striker Hassan Bashir took the shot, but goalkeeper Ovays Azizi made a brilliant save to his right. As a result, Pakistan lost momentum, and Afghanistan grew more confident.
Afghanistan then launched several counterattacks, forcing goalkeeper Yousuf Butt to make key saves. Both teams pushed for a winner, but neither could find the back of the net.
The draw leaves Pakistan with only one point from two matches. Therefore, their qualification hopes are now under pressure. Afghanistan also missed their chances but gained a valuable point.
Head coach Stephen Constantine praised his team’s fight but admitted frustration. “We played well enough to win, but we must take our chances,” he said after the match.
Pakistan now face a must-win game next, while Afghanistan will aim to build on their defensive strength in upcoming fixtures.