Analyzing Pakistan’s chances for the 2011 SAFF Cup

Analyzing Pakistan’s chances for the 2011 SAFF Cup

With South Asia’s biggest football competition kicking off next month, this writer analyzes Pakistan’s chances against the likes of India, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Although Pakistan’s football community wasn’t exactly looking forward to SAFF Cup given the lacklustre performances of the team in recent months, the appointment of Zaviša Milosavljevi? has renewed the optimism of many.

The Serbian trainer has assumed coaching duties from Tariq Lutfi, whose tenure was among the worse in the Green Kickers woeful history.

While a foreign tour has yet to be announced by the PFF, local players in the camp have already been impressed by Milosavljevi?’s tactics and methods. Not only that but the coach has also taken the liberty of watching the Pakistan Premier League matches
and is in the process of scouting talent.

The likes of Nomi Martin Gill, who have been overlooked in recent campaigns despite their superb form on the domestic stage, have since been re-called in to the National team fold by the new regime.

Gill is likely to be joined by the foreign contingent of Adnan Ahmed and Atif Bashir, who are both plying their trade in Europe. Bashir is contracted to Welsh side, Barry Town, while his close friend plays for Bradford Park Avenue.

The duo have been one of the best performers for Pakistan in recent months and are likely to be preferred by the boss, due to their skills and experience at the highest level.

Amjad Iqbal had also been in contention for a place in the squad but was overlooked by Tariq Lutfi. As a result he wasn’t able to register his documents and cannot be called upon despite being a superb defender, who has been on the rise since recovering
from a lengthy injury.

Although miracles are not expected to happen in the upcoming tournament, it is safe to assume that Pakistan should be able to make it past at least the group stage given the availability of the new coach and fresh talent.

However the team has been inconsistent over the years and it remains to be seen what impact Zaviša Milosavljevi? has on Pakistan’s chances for a victory in the SAFF Cup.

Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=4220

Posted by Shahrukh Sohail on Nov 21 2011. Filed under Sports. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry