An emphatic performance in Abidjan saw Pakistan produce a record-breaking 8-0 victory over the Turks and Caicos Islands at the Stade Alassane Ouattara, a result that sets a new benchmark for Pakistan women football.
Pakistan signalled their intent early when Mariam Mahmood, fresh from winning the Welsh league title with Wrexham Women, tested the side netting with a sharp effort inside four minutes. The breakthrough arrived in the 10th minute as Zahmena Malik found the back of the net, with Aqsa Mushtaq converting from a rebound two minutes later after Mariam forced a save from Turks and Caicos goalkeeper Archenie Desir.
Midfield control from Layla Banaras helped Pakistan dominate possession and she extended the lead with a weaving run and composed finish just past the half hour mark. Mariam then added a first-half goal when she volleyed in a cross at the back post to send Pakistan into the interval comfortably in front.
The second half continued in the same vein as Pakistan women football kept their opponents pinned in the defensive third. Nadia Khan planted a header from a left-sided cross in the 56th minute, Aqsa struck a stunning effort in the 76th, and Layla added her second with a precisely placed shot from distance. Isra Khan completed the scoring in the 81st minute to seal the 8-0 triumph.
The result surpasses Pakistan’s previous biggest win, a 7-0 victory over the Maldives in September 2022, and represents a striking start to Adeel Rizki’s campaign in the FIFA Series. The performance highlighted growing attacking depth and cohesion across the side.
PFF president Mohsen Gilani praised the squad and coaching staff, saying “I congratulate the players and the coaching staff for creating history. This is the start of a new era for women’s football in Pakistan and I hope the team continues in the same vein in the FIFA series.” The win will raise expectations at home as Pakistan look to build momentum in the competition.
