by Ahead of the upcoming campaign (SAFF, Asian Cup Qualifiers, and friendlies), the Pakistan Football Federation has included six promising players—blending fresh local talent with impactful diaspora recruits. Here’s a closer look:
1. Sahiba Sherdil (Defender)
- Captain of Karachi United WFC, Sherdil brings leadership and defensive solidity.
- Made her senior national team debut at the SAFF Women’s Friendly Tournament in Saudi Arabia early 2023 .
2. Zulfia Nazir Ahmed Shah (Midfielder)
- Experience with Karachi United since 2021, and part of the national setup since 2014.
- Known for technical midfield presence and consistent play.
3. Kayla Siddiqui (Defender – Dual National)
- U.S.-based fullback (Florida Atlantic University) with speed, strong aerial ability, and versatility .
- Impressive debut noted in the March 2024 match against Singapore.
4. Nadia Khan (Forward – Dual National)
- England-based striker (Doncaster Rovers Belles), recently on loan with Karachi City FC.
- Scored 6 goals in 5 games in China’s 2024 National Championship; prolific scorer for Pakistan with 4 international goals .
5. Sahar Zaman (Midfielder)
- Veteran creative force from Gilgit‑Baltistan.
- Former Golden Boot winner in domestic competition and integral midfield contributor .
6. Abiha Haider (Midfielder)
- Established midfielder with 15 national caps since 2010.
- Noted for her scoring flair and experience across Balochistan United and Islamabad club circuits .
🌍 A Thoughtful Squad Blend
- Local stalwarts like Sahar Zaman, Sahiba Sherdil, Abiha Haider, and Zulfia Shah keep the squad grounded with homegrown grit and experience.
- Strategic diaspora additions—Kayla Siddiqui and Nadia Khan—boost technical quality, tactical depth, and goal-scoring threat.
This reflects the PFF’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the national team via international exposure and local development—aiming for gains in the SAFF Championship and beyond.
🔍 What This Means for Pakistan Football
Defensive fortification: With Sherdil and Siddiqui, the back line gains pace, height, and international experience.
Midfield mastery: Zaman, Haider, and Zulfia add creativity, work rate, and composure to link the game.
Attacking uplift: Nadia Khan’s proven scoring record offers a significant weapon upfront.
🏆 Looking Ahead
The 24-member squad will enter a two-week camp (likely in Islamabad), followed by competitive blocks in the SAFF Women’s Championship and AFC Olympic or Asian Cup qualifiers. These six additions bring a fresh mix of skill, leadership, and hunger—a solid foundation for Pakistan’s ambitions on the regional and continental stage.
