In a landmark development for Pakistan football ahead of some crucial fixtures, midfielder Etzaz Hussain has officially been cleared by FIFA to represent the Shaheens.
The 32-year-old Norwegian-Pakistani, a decorated veteran of the Norwegian top flight with multiple league titles, will be eligible to make his international debut for Pakistan in their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Afghanistan in October at Jinnah Stadium.
The clearance brings an end to a long and complicated process, with Hussain’s eligibility being a subject of much discussion among Pakistani football fans for several years. His inclusion is widely seen as a significant boost to the squad, bringing a wealth of European experience and a pedigree rarely seen in the national team setup.
Etzaz Hussain, who has represented Norway at various youth levels but never earned a senior cap, has long expressed his desire to play for the country of his parents’ origin. His successful career with clubs like Molde FK, where he won four league titles and three domestic cups, has made him a household name in Scandinavian football.
His arrival marks a new chapter in the Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) efforts to integrate diaspora talent into the national team.
Etzaz Hussain is expected to bring stability and a creative spark to the midfield, which will be vital in the upcoming qualifier. The match against Afghanistan is not only a key fixture in the AFC Asian Cup qualification campaign but also a highly anticipated contest given the regional rivalry.
For fans, the wait is over. The October clash at Jinnah Stadium will not just be a game; it will be a historic moment, as one of Pakistan’s most anticipated players finally takes the field in the green shirt.