Once again, it raises questions about the federation’s administrative efficiency. Travel Issues Hurt Pakistan U23 football  Preparations, September verifiedinsightspk. 

The Pakistan U23 football team has run into problems just days before the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. The news is goalkeeper, Umair Arooj, was left behind due to a travel document error. 

What is the Whole Matter About the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers?

Arooj was part of the 23-member squad announced by the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF). But according to reports, the PFF mistakenly entered the name of goalkeeper Umair Bahadar twice in the clearance documents, leaving Arooj out. This mistake made him ineligible to travel with the squad to Cambodia. It is a huge setback.

History of Administrative Problems

This is not the first time the PFF has faced such issues. Administrative mistakes and travel setbacks have long troubled Pakistani football. For many fans, this latest blunder reflects the governing body’s ongoing logistical challenges, which continue to affect the national team’s progress.

Impact on the Squad

With Arooj missing, Pakistan will now rely on Hassan Ali and Adam Najeeb as their only goalkeeping choices for the upcoming matches. Losing a key squad member just before the qualifiers is seen as a major setback, especially as the team faces tough opponents.

Group G Challenge Ahead

Pakistan, coached by Nolberto Solano, is placed in Group G of the qualifiers alongside Iraq, hosts Cambodia, and Oman. The competition is expected to be very difficult. However, missing a goalkeeper from the original roster makes the task even harder.

Despite these hurdles, the young Pakistani squad is determined to prove itself on the international stage. And they will surely make a mark in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers.