Pakistan Announces 23-Man Squad for Major International Football Tournament

Pakistan head coach Nolberto Solano has announced a 23-man squad for the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament in the Maldives, with the team set to take part in the four-nation event from June 1 to 10.

The squad includes a mix of domestic players and overseas-based talent as Pakistan continue preparations for upcoming regional competition, including the SAFF Championship.

Pakistan Squad for Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament in Maldives

According to the squad list, the three goalkeepers selected are Saqib Hanif, Yousaf Butt, and Hassan Ali.

In defense, Solano has picked Abdullah Iqbal, Muhammad Fazal, Abdullah Shah, Essah Suleman, Mohib Afridi, Mamoon Musa, Ali Nazi, and Haris Zeb.

The midfield unit includes Adil Nabi, Rahis Nabi, Alamgir Ghazi, Hayyan Khattak, Ali Agha, and Otis Khan.

Pakistan’s forward line features Shayak Dost, Umer Nawaz, Ali Shah, Ali Khan, Samad Arshad, and Harun Hamid.

The tournament in Malé will see Pakistan begin their campaign against Bangladesh U23 in the opening match. The competition is being seen as an important opportunity for the coaching staff to test combinations and build depth ahead of future assignments.

The squad announcement has also sparked discussion among fans, with some questioning the absence of names such as Tufail Shinwari and Omar Rao. Tufail in particular had attracted attention for his recent performances and assists in matches against Afghanistan and Myanmar.

Even so, the latest selection suggests Solano is continuing with a blend of home-based and diaspora players as he shapes his core group for the months ahead.