The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) continues to shape the national coaching tree after confirming two key coaching appointments as part of its drive to strengthen youth football and futsal in the country.
Veteran coach Nasir Ismail, holder of the prestigious AFC “A” License, has been handed the reins of the Pakistan U-17 national team. He will lead the side at the SAFF U-17 Championship 2025, scheduled to take place in September this year in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Known for his emphasis on tactical discipline and player development, Ismail’s task will be to prepare the young Green Shirts for a competitive regional battle.
Pakistan has been drawn in Group B of the SAFF U17 Championship with India, Bhutan, and Maldives for company.
Meanwhile, in an equally significant move, the PFF has handed the head coaching job of the national futsal team to Sakhawat Ali. He will take charge of the squad for the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers, where Pakistan will make its first appearance. Futsal has been gaining traction in Pakistan, and Ali’s appointment signals the PFF’s intent to make a mark at the continental level.
The Futsal Asian Cup qualifiers are scheduled to take place from September 20 to 24, where Pakistan has been placed in Group D of the tournament with Iraq, Chinese Taipei, and group hosts Saudi Arabia as other members.
The appointments, approved by the PFF Executive Committee, are being viewed as a step towards building a stronger pipeline of talent across both formats. With both youth football and futsal receiving dedicated attention, officials believe the approach could pay dividends for the country’s overall footballing future.