Triumph bound to ignite newfound football interest in Pakistan: Stephen Constantine

Stephen Constantine's Pakistan won their first-ever World Cup qualfiier on 17 October.

As the final whistle echoed through the Jinnah Stadium, head coach Stephen Constantine couldn’t hide his joy after guiding Pakistan to 1-0 victory over Cambodia in Round 1 of the  FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Preliminary Joint Qualification on Tuesday.

It was a historic moment for Pakistan, who advanced into Round 2 joining Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Tajikistan in Group G.

Pakistan came into the contest after holding Cambodia to a 0-0 stalemate in the first leg with Harun Hamid's 68th minute goal sealing the win. 

"It's a historic day for Pakistan football as, for the first time ever, we've secured a victory in the World Cup qualifying round,” said Stephen Constantine.  “The players fought tenaciously until the last minute, putting in every effort to maintain their lead. 

“This triumph is bound to ignite a newfound interest in football throughout the country."

The 61-year-old Englishman, who took over the helm on an interim basis, shared that he had successfully accomplished his initial objective — guiding Pakistan to their first-ever win in a World Cup qualifying round.

"I was operating on a short contract with the Pakistan Football Federation, and now it's in their hands to determine my ongoing association with the national team. Nonetheless, I’m pleased to have met my target.”

Pakistan were a renewed team after the restart and their growing confidence proved to be the difference with Hamid volleying home to leave the Cambodians stunned.

“I’m thankful to the fans for their support throughout the game,” said Hamid. “Now we are going to the next round with a hope to do well. We will play even better football in the next round.”