Pakistan hold Afghanistan 1-1 in AFC Asian Cup Qualifier

Pakistan managed to secure a crucial draw in their second AFC Asian Cup Qualifier after midfielder Aitezaz Hussain scored a stunning field goal to level the match 1-1 against Afghanistan on Tuesday.

The Group E encounter was held at Sabah Al-Salem Stadium in Al-Ardiya, Kuwait, and began at a fast pace.

Afghanistan took an early lead in the 5th minute, when defender Mahboob Hanifi outsmarted Pakistani goalkeeper Saqib Hanif with a precise finish, putting his team ahead 1-0.

Pakistan, however, showed resilience and composure.

In the 29th minute, Aitezaz Hussain struck a superb equalizer, driving the ball into the net to bring his side back into the contest.

Both teams continued to press for a winning goal in the second half, creating several chances but failing to convert them. The match ended 1-1, with both sides earning one point each.

Despite the draw, Afghanistan and Pakistan remain in the lower half of Group E, sitting third and fourth respectively. Afghanistan holds a slight edge due to a better goal difference.

The result gives Pakistan their first point of the qualifying round and keeps their hopes alive as they prepare for the upcoming fixtures in the group stage.