Karachi: The Pakistan Football Federation has decided to rename Stephen Constantin as a chief coach of the national team, PK Press Club News reported.
Although an official announcement remains to be made, the decision comes when Pakistan is preparing for the third round of the AFC Asian Cup qualifications, marking a crucial phase of the country’s football trip.
However, according to sources, Constantine has been asked for a coach role only for the AFC Asian Cup qualification match against Syria. A long-term appointment decision will be made later.
“He only comes for this qualifier (vs Syria). We don’t have enough time for any change, so we asked Stephen to come back for this match, “said a source in PFF.
Constantine had previously managed the Pakistani team from 2023 to 2024. During her first visit to the Pakistani team, the Shaheens managed to win the FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Cambodia and for the very first time in history, qualified for the second qualifying round – but could not “go beyond, but the team showed remarkable improvement during its mandate.
Stephen Constantine is a familiar name in Asian football, after having managed several national teams through the continent, including India and Nepal. He is best known for his two successful terms with the Indian national team, where he has considerably improved the FIFA ranking of India and has developed young talents.
The PFF, according to the sources, also confirmed Pakistan’s participation in the third round of the AFC Asian Cup qualifications, a major step after the lifting of the fifa suspension,
Pakistan’s first match in qualifying is scheduled for March 25, 2024 against Syria. The match, the Syria’s home match will be held in Saudi Arabia. According to sources, Constantin should take charge of the team for this crucial match.
