ABIDJAN: Pakistan opened its FIFA Series campaign with an 8-0 victory over Turks and Caicos Islands at Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, on Thursday.
The win marked Pakistan’s biggest-ever margin of victory, surpassing their previous 7-0 result against Maldives in September 2022, signaling a strong start under coach Adeel Rizki.
Pakistan dominated from the outset, creating early chances through Mariam Mahmood and Nadia Khan before Zahmena Malik broke the deadlock in the 10th minute.
Aqsa Mushtaq doubled the lead two minutes later, converting a rebound after Mahmood’s effort was saved.
Layla Banaras extended the advantage in the 31st minute with a composed finish following a solo run, while Mahmood added a fourth in the 38th minute with a volley at the back post to cap a commanding first-half display.
Pakistan maintained control after the break, with Nadia Khan heading in the fifth goal in the 56th minute from a cross on the left.
Aqsa Mushtaq scored her second in the 76th minute with a long-range strike, while Layla Banaras also completed a brace with a shot from outside the box.
Isra Khan sealed the 8-0 victory in the 81st minute.
Pakistan Football Federation President Syed Mohsen Gillani congratulated the team, calling the result historic.
“I congratulate the players and the coaching staff for creating history,” he said. “This is the start of a new era for women’s football in Pakistan and I hope the team continues in the same vein in the FIFA series.”
Gillani also dedicated the victory to the country’s leadership.
“At a time when our PM and CDF are playing a historic role for peace, our girls have created history on the football field,” he said.
“We dedicate this victory to our leadership for their dedication. The golden era for Pakistan women’s football is dawning upon us.”
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