Islamabad: Pakistan head coach Nolberto Solano has expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and long-term vision ahead of their crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Myanmar, stressing that the national side is steadily laying the foundation for future success.
Addressing the media during the official pre-match press conference, Solano highlighted both the immediate challenge posed by Myanmar and the broader developmental strategy guiding Pakistan football. “It is always exciting when matches like this come around,” Solano said. “We know it will be a difficult game. Myanmar are a strong side and have shown their quality recently. But we are prepared, and the players are looking forward to the challenge.”
The fixture comes at a significant stage for Pakistan, with the coaching staff using the current international window not only to compete but also to evaluate emerging talent, particularly from the domestic circuit. Solano reaffirmed that 2026 is a key year in building a competitive squad capable of progressing in continental football. “We have a clear plan for this year,” he explained. “That is why you see many local players in the squad. They deserve the chance to represent the country and show what they can do. There is real quality here, and this is an opportunity for them to step up.”
Pakistan captain Alamgir Ghazi echoed his coach’s optimism, underlining the squad’s determination and unity heading into the match. “The boys are motivated and ready,” Ghazi said. “We will fight until the last whistle. Everyone understands the importance of this game, and we are prepared to give our best.”
Solano also addressed recent injury concerns, revealing that a number of players had been forced out after picking up knocks during training. He emphasized that the physical demands of international football require players to adapt quickly to higher intensity levels. “At this level, the intensity is completely different,” he noted. “Some players were training very well but unfortunately suffered injuries. It is part of the game. What matters is that we continue building depth and giving opportunities to others.”
A key talking point from the press conference was the limited presence of overseas-based players in the current squad. Solano clarified that the decision to prioritise locally based footballers was intentional. “This camp is about giving local players a real opportunity,” he said. “I am familiar with many of the diaspora players and what they can bring, but these boys also need exposure at international level. It is important for their development.”
Beyond tactics and personnel, Solano emphasised the importance of developing a strong team identity, something he believes is crucial for Pakistan’s progress. “We want to be organised and difficult to beat,” he said. “But more importantly, we need to build a strong mentality. Teams should not come here expecting easy points. That mindset has to change.”
He added that creating cohesion within a national team setup presents challenges, given the limited time players spend together, but insisted that unity and discipline can serve as the foundation for success. “The goal is to build a team that fights for each other, a strong unit that represents Pakistan with pride,” he said.
The upcoming match will be played behind closed doors, a decision that Solano described as unfortunate but understandable. “Football without fans is always disappointing,” he said. “The supporters bring energy that lifts the players. But we respect the decision, and safety is the priority. Hopefully, we can have fans back in the stadium soon.”
Captain Alamgir Ghazi praised the team’s preparations, noting that several players entered the camp in good physical condition following recent domestic and regional competitions. “The preparation has been strong,” he said. “Many of the players were already match-fit, which helped us a lot. The training sessions have been intense, and the team is fully focused.”
As Pakistan prepare to face Myanmar, the message from the camp is clear: while results remain important, the larger objective is sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness. “These players have ambition,” Solano concluded. “They want to show what Pakistan can achieve. We are building step by step, and this is just the beginning of something bigger.”