Pakistan were left frustrated after a missed penalty from Otis Khan denied them a historic win, as the Green Shirts were held to a 0–0 draw by Afghanistan in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier at Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad.
The match was an intense, end-to-end contest, with Pakistan showing far more attacking intent than in previous outings. The hosts dominated possession and created several chances but failed to find the back of the net.
The turning point came in the 65th minute, when Pakistan earned a golden opportunity to take the lead through a penalty. However, Otis Khan’s spot-kick flew over the crossbar, leaving the home crowd stunned and the scoreline unchanged.
Despite sustained pressure in the final stages, Pakistan could not break through Afghanistan’s disciplined defense. The visitors held firm to secure a point on foreign soil.
The result, while disappointing, ends Pakistan’s eight-match losing streak in international football and gives them their first point in Group E of the qualifiers.
Pakistan now sit joint-bottom of the group alongside Afghanistan, while Syria and Myanmar lead the table with five points each.
The Green Shirts will face Afghanistan once again in the return leg on October 14, where they will look to convert their improved performance into three points.
