BANDUNG, September 30, 2026: Pakistan earned its first-ever point in a FIFA competition after producing a remarkable second-half comeback to draw 2-2 with the Philippines in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.
Playing at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung on Tuesday, Pakistan came from two goals down at half-time to secure a draw and also scored its first goals in a FIFA tournament. FIFA described the result as a historic point for Nolberto Solano’s side.
The Philippines took control of the match in the first half, with Sandro Reyes opening the scoring in the 24th minute. Bjørn Kristensen then doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute.
Pakistan responded strongly after the interval. Muhammad Ali Akbar Khan pulled one back just 70 seconds into the second half after receiving a lofted pass from captain Abdullah Iqbal.
Pakistan completed the comeback in the 62nd minute when Abdul Shahzad found the equaliser, securing a 2-2 draw and a valuable point for the national side.
The result marked Pakistan’s first point and first goals in its debut FIFA competition appearance. Pakistan had previously lost its opening Group B match 4-0 to Thailand.
Pakistan entered the match ranked 198th in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking, while the Philippines were 62 places higher, according to FIFA.
The inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup features 14 national teams, including 11 ASEAN members and three guest teams. Pakistan is competing in Division 1, Group B alongside Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.
The draw leaves Pakistan with one point from two matches as it prepares for its remaining Group B fixture against Vietnam.