Pakistan’s women’s national team ignited their FIFA Series campaign in spectacular fashion on Thursday, dismantling the Turks and Caicos Islands 8-0 at the Stade Alassane Ouattara.
The clinical performance didn’t just secure three points; it rewrote the record books as the nation’s largest-ever international victory. Adeel Rizki’s side wasted no time asserting dominance, eclipsing their previous record—a 7-0 win over the Maldives in 2022. From the opening whistle, the “Green Shirts” displayed a level of tactical fluidity and attacking flair that left their opponents reeling.
The intent was clear within the first four minutes when Mariam Mahmood, buoyed by her recent league title success with Wrexham, rattled the side netting. The breakthrough came in the 10th minute via Zahmena Malik, who finished calmly to open the floodgates.
Just two minutes later, Aqsa Mushtaq doubled the lead, pouncing on a rebound after a stinging effort from Mariam. The midfield was bossed by Layla Banaras, whose “metronomic” composure was rewarded in the 30th minute; she embarked on a dazzling solo run before slotting home Pakistan’s third. The first-half masterclass was rounded off by Mariam, who expertly volleyed a cross at the back post to make it 4-0 before the break.
The second half saw no reprieve for the Turks and Caicos defense. In the 56th minute, Nadia Khan rose highest to meet a cross from the left, powering a header into the back of the net.
As the match entered its final quarter, the quality of goals reached a fever pitch. Aqsa Mushtaq netted a “pearler” in the 76th minute for her second of the night, followed shortly by a long-range rocket from Layla Banaras that nestled into the corner. The historic 8-0 scoreline was finalized in the 81st minute by Isra Khan, sealing a night of absolute dominance.
Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gillani lauded the squad for their historic achievement, framing the win as a turning point for the sport in the country.
“I congratulate the players and coaching staff for creating history,” Gillani stated. “This is the start of a new era for women’s football in Pakistan. Our girls are showing the world they can play, and I hope this momentum continues throughout the FIFA Series.”
In a formal statement, President Gillani dedicated the record-breaking triumph to the nation’s leadership, noting the synergy between national progress and sporting success.
“At a time when our Prime Minister and Chief of Defence Forces are playing a historic role for peace, our girls have created history on the pitch,” Gillani added. “We dedicate this victory to their dedication to the country. The golden era for Pakistan women’s football is dawning.”