Despite, a 2–1 win over Kyrgyzstan, as Chinese Taipei scored the most points in the group.
Drawn in Group D alongside Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, and Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan suffered an 8–0 defeat to Chinese Taipei on June 29. However, they valiantly defeated hosts Indonesia 2–0 before ending their campaign with a dramatic finish against Kyrgyzstan.
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At the immediate start of the match, Mariam Mahmood scored her first international goal.
first goal Mariam Mahmood makes it count! pic.twitter.com/FL4xVhihHR
— Pakistan Football Federation (@TheRealPFF) July 5, 2025
“Layla Aliya won possession at the halfway line and threaded a pass that initially looked to be claimed by Dilnura Abibulla, only for the Kyrgyz Republic custodian (goalkeeper) to drop the ball, allowing Mariam Mahmood to roll it into an unguarded net,” as per an AFC press release.
She then proceeded to convert her penalty into a goal, doubling Pakistan’s tally.
Back of the net again! Mariam Mahmood converts the penalty for her second goal. pic.twitter.com/1LVPORWyOU
— Pakistan Football Federation (@TheRealPFF) July 5, 2025
AFC stated that the only goal scored by Kyrgyzstan in the match was when Alina Gaparova struck a low drive into the bottom corner in the 69th minute.
The Pakistan Football Federation praised the squad’s historic campaign, noting, “For the first time in history, Pakistan took part in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers and what a statement they made… A moment of pride for every supporter of the game.”
“After a tough start against Chinese Taipei, the team bounced back with incredible determination and heart, securing back-to-back victories against Indonesia (2–0) and Kyrgyzstan (2–1). With these wins, they’ve written a new chapter in Pakistan’s football journey.”
“Despite the impressive win and finishing second in the group, Pakistan could not advance to the next round, with Chinese Taipei securing qualification,” the PFF later stated.
Pakistan placed second with two wins and six points from their three games, while Chinese Taipei topped Group D with nine points, winning all three matches.
PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani praised the team, saying, “Our national women’s team displayed great character and fighting spirit during their debut campaign at the AFC Qualifiers.”
“Despite winning two matches and finishing second, we were unfortunate not to progress to the next round. But this is just the beginning.”
“With continued support and sincere efforts, I am confident that our team will perform even better in future international events,” concluded Gilani.
