The Pakistan Football Federation formally unveiled its FIFAe programme in Lahore as President Mohsen Gilani confirmed Pakistan’s first official entry into the FIFAe Nations League, marking the country’s arrival in FIFA’s global football esports ecosystem. This move places Pakistan FIFAe on the national sports agenda and opens a new competitive pathway for local players.
Flanked by PFF Vice President Hafiz Zakaullah and newly appointed eFootball Manager Shahzeb Raza, President Gilani said the initiative gives Pakistani youth a chance to showcase their skills internationally while tapping income opportunities in the digital economy. Gilani reiterated his commitment to raising Pakistan’s football profile, saying Insha’Allah the country will soon be recognised across the football world.
Shahzeb Raza outlined the programme’s structure and confirmed that the initial national eFootball squad was chosen on merit following formal nationwide trials, with a fresh round of trials now underway to expand the player pool. Raza emphasised that esports offers multiple revenue streams beyond competitive play, including content creation and publication deals with international partners.
Gilani said the federation plans to mainstream Pakistan FIFAe culture to lower barriers to entry across the country, pointing to Korea Republic and Indonesia as benchmarks for success. He expressed confidence that Pakistan can reach similar heights with sustained investment and grassroots development.
The PFF president also highlighted wider progress within the federation. Pakistan’s Women’s National Team is competing in the FIFA Series and recording wins, while the U17 side has shown encouraging results, signalling a strengthening domestic pipeline for both traditional and digital football pathways.
On player selection, Gilani confirmed that any Pakistani talent worldwide is eligible to represent the country and noted a domestic talent discovery programme is in place. A professional league for Pakistani players is planned, a development Vice President Hafiz Zakaullah said would lift national morale and help professionalise the sport at home.
On the pitch in FIFAe competition, Pakistan reached the qualifying rounds for gameweek one with walkovers against Papua New Guinea and Guam. Competitive results saw a narrow 1-0 loss to 2024 world champions Indonesia, a 2-1 defeat to Myanmar and a 4-1 loss to Korea Republic. Pakistan will face Thailand in a home-and-away knockout tie today, April 16, as the team seeks to build experience and momentum in the Pakistan FIFAe programme.
