Pakistan’s journey toward the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 begins this November. The national U17 side is in Pot 6, the lowest seeding tier for the upcoming qualifiers. The draw, scheduled for August 7, will decide their group-stage opponents among 43 competing nations.
The AFC U17 Qualifiers will be held from November 22 to 30. Matches will take place across seven countries: India, Thailand, China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Kyrgyz Republic, and Jordan.
Low Seeding, High Stakes
Being in Pot 6 places Pakistan alongside only Macau and Sri Lanka. This tier includes teams with the weakest recent records in youth football. As a result, Pakistan will likely face opponents from higher-ranking Pots 1 through 5.
This scenario makes qualifying much harder. Teams in higher pots have more structured programs and better international experience.
How the Tournament Works
The qualifiers will include three groups of six teams and four groups of five teams. The top team from each group and a few best-performing runners-up will advance to the final tournament in 2026.
The structure means every match will count. For a Pot 6 team like Pakistan, even earning points will be tough.
Pakistan’s Return to Continental Youth Football
Despite the tough draw, Pakistan’s return to the qualifiers is a positive step. This is the team’s first appearance in the AFC U17 Qualifiers since 2018. The return follows years of internal chaos within the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF).
The federation is now trying to rebuild its regional and international presence. Participating in this tournament reflects that progress.
Youth Football Still Needs Attention
Pakistan has plenty of raw talent, but youth football lacks consistent development. Other Asian nations invest heavily in coaching, fitness, and infrastructure. Pakistan, however, has struggled with mismanagement and inactivity.
The current U17 team has little international match experience. Most players haven’t faced tough regional or continental sides before.
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What the Draw Could Mean
The upcoming draw will decide Pakistan’s group and travel destination. A group including a team like Japan or South Korea would be a huge test. Even facing mid-tier teams like Lebanon or Malaysia would be challenging.
If placed in a six-team group, Pakistan will play five matches in just nine days. Fitness and squad depth will play a major role.
More Than Qualification: It’s About Exposure
Realistically, qualifying may be out of reach. But these qualifiers offer more than just results. Players gain experience, exposure, and confidence. Competing against Asia’s best can help young players improve quickly.
These games will also show coaches what’s missing. They can use this insight to develop training programs back home.
Support Matters
Pakistan’s football fans and media must support these players. Win or lose, showing belief in the squad helps build morale. It also draws attention to the sport beyond cricket.
Football coverage needs to expand, especially for youth levels. Highlighting these matches helps grow a culture of support for future teams.
Rebuilding Starts Here
Pakistan’s inclusion in Pot 6 reflects where the country stands in Asian football. Years of mismanagement have taken a toll. But showing up, competing, and improving is how progress begins.
The federation needs to keep pushing youth development. Domestic leagues, school tournaments, and training camps must continue year-round.
The AFC U17 Qualifiers won’t be easy for Pakistan. The odds are stacked against them, and the draw could be harsh. But this is a chance to rebuild, learn, and compete with purpose.
Football is about more than results—it’s about growth. And for Pakistan, this tournament could spark the change the sport desperately needs.
