Afghan Futsal Makes History by Qualifying for World Cup

Afghanistan’s fairytale run at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup culminated in a historic achievement – qualification for the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup! They defeated Kyrgyzstan 5-3 in a thrilling final-day clash to secure the fifth and final Asian spot at the tournament.

Early Goal Sets the Tone:

Omid Qanbari ignited Afghan hopes with a well-placed counter-attack goal in the 8th minute, expertly assisted by Reza Hosseinpour. The Afghans continued their attacking momentum, creating several opportunities but failing to convert them before halftime.

Dramatic Second Half:

Kyrgyzstan came out strong in the second half, desperate to equalize. However, Afghanistan’s resolute defense held firm. A stroke of luck saw Mehran Gholami’s shot deflect off a Kyrgyz defender and find the net in the 29th minute. The joy was short-lived as Kyrgyzstan responded with an own goal of their own just a minute later.

Unrelenting Afghans Seal the Deal:

Afghanistan refused to be deterred. Mehran Gholami played a crucial role again, this time setting up Akbar Kazemi to score after his initial shot came off the post. Kyrgyzstan opted for a power play to salvage the game, but it backfired. Mahdi Nowrozi and Mehran Gholami capitalized on Kyrgyz vulnerabilities, scoring twice in quick succession to extend Afghanistan’s lead to 5-2. Kyrgyzstan added a late consolation goal, but it was too little, too late.

Historic day for Afghan Futsal:

This victory marks a watershed moment for Afghan futsal. They have qualified for the World Cup for the first time ever in their debut Asian Cup appearance. Afghanistan will join Iran, Thailand, Tajikistan, and host nation Uzbekistan as Asia’s representatives at the World Cup, scheduled for October 6th to September 14th, 2024.