by Asif Mehmood Awan
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa female footballer Neha Tariq Abbasi has made history by earning selection for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Iraq. Neha, who lives in Circle Bakot Patan Kalan in Abbottabad, proudly represents Pakistan as the only woman selected from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for this prestigious international tournament. Earlier this week, she departed for Iraq to join her team.
Neha expressed her excitement, calling the opportunity a great honor for herself, her family, and her region. Her journey to football began with a strong foundation in martial arts. Before switching to football, she gained recognition as the top karate player and coach in the Hazara Region. She won multiple gold medals in the Under-21, Under-20, and Under-23 Games, consistently proving her athletic excellence.
Moreover, she remains determined to bring the same discipline and competitive spirit to the football pitch. Neha credits her parents and coaches for their unwavering support. “Their encouragement helped me reach this milestone,” she said.
In addition to her personal achievements, Neha’s selection serves as an inspiration for young women across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Local sports officials praised her dedication and pointed out that her participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup reflects the growing potential of female athletes in the region.
Her success also highlights the importance of inclusive sports development. Advocates for women’s sports in Pakistan have long emphasized the need for better facilities, coaching, and visibility. Neha’s journey reinforces that message and shows what’s possible when talent is nurtured with consistent support.
As she prepares to compete on the international stage, Neha remains focused on representing Pakistan with pride. Ultimately, this achievement by a Khyber Pakhtunkhwa female footballer stands as a powerful example of resilience, ambition, and the rising visibility of women in sports. Neha’s selection reflects Pakistan’s growing engagement with global women’s football and the expanding opportunities for female athletes across South Asia.
