Pakistan women’s football represents the country at the international level. It is rapidly growing, with the national team gaining recognition through improved performances, rising FIFA rankings, and historic participation in global tournaments.
Pakistan Women’s Football Team: Historic Year in 2026
The Pakistan Women’s Football Team is enjoying a landmark period in 2026 as it makes significant strides on the international stage. For the first time in history, the team will participate in a FIFA-organised event—the FIFA Women’s Football Series 2026—marking a breakthrough for women’s football in Pakistan.
First-Ever FIFA Series Appearance
In a historic achievement, the Pakistan women’s team has been officially approved to compete in the FIFA Women’s Football Series 2026.
This opportunity—announced by the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) and FIFA—will see Pakistan play in a global event designed to provide emerging football nations with structured, competitive fixtures.
Pakistan has been placed in the Ivory Coast group, with matches scheduled for March and April 2026 at venues in the Ivory Coast, Brazil, and Thailand. The full match schedule will be released later.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers Journey
Before the FIFA Series, Pakistan competed in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, showing strong progress:
- On July 2, 2025, Pakistan stunned Indonesia 2–0, one of their biggest results in years. Nadia Khan and Suha Hirani scored the goals in a resilient performance.
- On July 5, 2025, Pakistan finished their qualifiers with a 2–1 win over Kyrgyzstan, with Maryam Mahmood scoring both goals. While the team didn’t advance to the main tournament, these wins reflect notable improvement against higher-ranked sides.
These results have been encouraging signs of Pakistan’s development in women’s football over recent seasons.
Growing International Profile
The team’s inclusion in the FIFA Series is seen as a major step forward for Pakistan’s women’s football program, offering players international exposure and competitive matches beyond regional qualifiers.
Pakistan is currently ranked around 154th in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, but participation in global events is expected to raise its profile.
PFF officials have welcomed this opportunity, describing it as a new era for the national side and a chance to inspire young footballers across Pakistan.
Team Development & Future Outlook
As Pakistan prepares for the FIFA Series and other international engagements in 2026, the focus is on the continued development of players, tactical improvements, and growing competitive experience.
The team’s progress from provincial training camps to competing in continental qualifiers and now a FIFA event shows a strengthening system under the PFF’s guidance.
For many players, including forward Maryam Mahmood and goalkeeper Zeeyana Jivraj. These platforms offer vital chances to gain experience against diverse international opponents.
Key 2026 Takeaways—Pakistan Women’s Football
- Historic FIFA Series Inclusion: First time in a FIFA-organised event ✓
- FIFA Series Group: Placed in the Ivory Coast group ✓
- AFC qualifiers wins: 2–0 vs Indonesia and 2–1 vs Kyrgyzstan ✓
- International exposure: Growing competitiveness and visibility ✓
Pakistan Women’s Football Team – Overview & Background
The Pakistan Women’s National Football Team is the official women’s football (soccer) team representing Pakistan in international competitions. After years of inactivity, the team returned in 2022 following FIFA’s restoration of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) to active status.
Historic FIFA Series Debut
Pakistan’s women’s football team is set to make history by participating in the FIFA Women’s Football Series for the first time. Marking a significant milestone in the country’s growing presence on the global football stage.
In December 2025, the Pakistan women’s team earned a historic first-ever place in the FIFA Football Series. This is the first time Pakistan will directly compete in a FIFA-sanctioned event.
This inclusion is a breakthrough, expected to give the team valuable international exposure and opportunities against teams from Brazil, the Ivory Coast, and Thailand.
FIFA Women’s Football Rankings Progress
Pakistan’s women’s team has been steadily improving in the global rankings, moving up to around 154th place in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings. A reflection of better results and increased activity.
This jump is significant given the team’s nearly decade-long absence from international competition.
Return to International Football
After an eight-year hiatus, the women’s team returned to competitive football in 2022 with entry into the SAFF Women’s Championship, marking Pakistan’s first international match since 2014.
This comeback was supported by a new coaching setup and squad that included both local and overseas players.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers Performance
In 2025, Pakistan competed in its first AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualification campaign, playing a series of matches against teams like Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, and Kyrgyzstan.
Despite an initial heavy defeat, the team bounced back with solid wins over Indonesia and Kyrgyzstan, showing improvement and fighting spirit.
Key Players: Nadia Khan
Nadia Khan is one of the most exciting talents in the Pakistan squad. This British-Pakistani forward plays for Blackburn Rovers Women and has scored multiple goals for the national team, including historic multi-goal matches.
She remains one of Pakistan’s top scorers and a central figure in inspiring young players nationwide.
Influential Players & Captains
Alongside Nadia Khan, players like Maria Khan, the captain and midfielder, have been crucial to team leadership and organisation on the pitch.
Veteran stars like Hajra Khan and Malika-e-Noor have also contributed significantly, both on and off the field, pushing for more recognition and opportunities for women’s football.
National Women’s Football Championship (Domestic League)
The National Women’s Football Championship highlights Pakistan’s domestic women’s football scene, the premier club competition organised by PFF.
In the 2024 edition, Karachi City FC won the title, showcasing the growing club-level talent and competitive spirit of women’s football in the country.
Development of Women’s Football at Grassroots
Grassroots initiatives and youth programs have been gaining traction. Producing young talents and expanding the pool of players for club and national teams.
Leagues like the Girls Football League in Gilgit-Baltistan, along with increased participation by British-born players, have boosted visibility and performance.
Pakistan in SAFF and Regional Competitions
The SAFF Women’s Championship has been a key platform for Pakistan’s resurgence, with memorable performances including a 7–0 win over the Maldives, in which Nadia Khan scored four goals.
These results have not only lifted morale but also shown that Pakistan can compete effectively at the regional level.
Significant Milestones & Firsts
Pakistan’s women’s team has achieved several historic “firsts,” including its first big international win. It’s the first multi-goal performance by a player, and now it’s the first time a player has participated in a FIFA event.
These milestones reflect years of effort to rebuild and promote women’s football in a challenging environment.
FIFA Series Participation & Global Exposure
Being part of the FIFA Football Series allows Pakistan to step onto the global stage, compete beyond Asia, and gain experience against diverse football styles.
This exposure is expected to accelerate development, attract sponsors, and increase media coverage of the women’s game.
Impact on Women’s Sports in Pakistan
The success of the women’s football team has broader implications for women’s sports in Pakistan. Challenging cultural norms and encouraging girls to pursue competitive athletics.
Positive role models like Nadia Khan, Maria Khan, and others help shift perceptions and motivate younger generations. (Footballer)
Challenges & Future Path
Despite progress, Pakistan’s women’s football still faces challenges—limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and limited competition opportunities.
Efforts to expand domestic leagues, improve training facilities, and ensure regular international fixtures will be key to sustaining the team’s growth.
Growth of Overseas Talent Influence
The inclusion of British-Pakistani players has significantly raised the team’s technical level and competitiveness.
Such players bring international experience, elevate team performance, and help mentor local talents.
Women’s Football & FIFA Recognition
The Pakistan women’s team’s inclusion in the FIFA Series is seen globally as recognition of the country’s continued efforts to develop and support women’s football — a significant morale boost for the sport’s ecosystem.
This endorsement also sends a powerful message about inclusivity and opportunity for female athletes in South Asia.
Role of PFF & Leadership
The Pakistan Football Federation has played a pivotal role by organising training camps. Securing international fixtures and advocating for women’s football.
Strong administrative support and leadership are essential to sustain progress and ensure long-term success.
Regional Performance & Rivalries
Competing in AFC qualifiers and regional championships has helped Pakistan measure its growth against stronger Asian teams and provided valuable learning experiences.
Matches against higher-ranked teams have challenged Pakistan to improve tactically and physically.
Top Trending Players to Watch
Key players making headlines include forward Nadia Khan, captain Maria Khan, and rising talents like Layla Banaras. Whose performances are inspiring fans and analysts alike.
Pakistan Women’s Football
Pakistan women’s football represents the country internationally and has shown strong growth in recent years.
After returning to international competition in 2022, the team gained attention through regional tournaments and FIFA events.
Their progress has inspired young girls across Pakistan to take up football professionally.
Pakistan Women’s Football Goalkeeper
The Pakistan women’s football team goalkeepers play a crucial role in strengthening the defense line.
They have delivered key saves in international matches, especially during AFC qualifiers and SAFF tournaments.
Improved training and exposure have helped goalkeepers perform with more confidence on the global stage.
Pakistan Women’s Football FIFA Ranking
The Pakistan Women’s Football Team has steadily improved its FIFA ranking, reaching around the mid-150s in recent updates.
This rise reflects increased international matches and better results after years of inactivity. Participation in FIFA-recognised tournaments has significantly boosted the ranking points.
Pakistan Women’s Football Features Programme
Pakistan women’s football is frequently featured in development programs supported by the Pakistan Football Federation and FIFA.
These programs focus on grassroots training, the inclusion of overseas talent, and international exposure.
Feature programs have helped promote women’s football through media coverage and youth initiatives.
Pakistan Women’s Football Captain
Maria Jamila Khan is the captain of the Pakistan Women’s Football Team and a key leader on and off the field.
She brings international experience, strong midfield control, and leadership qualities to the squad. Under her captaincy, the team has achieved historic wins and improved global recognition.
Final Summary
The Pakistan Women’s Football Team has emerged from years of inactivity to become a symbol of resilience and progress in sport.
With a historic FIFA Series inclusion, improving world rankings, talented players like Nadia Khan, and growing grassroots support. The future looks brighter than ever for women’s football in Pakistan.