The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match between Pakistan and Jordan will take place at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium.
After a period of uncertainty, the location for the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup qualification match between Pakistan and Jordan has finally been settled. The match is slated to take place at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for approximately 2 PM local time. This decision comes after logistical challenges related to the absence of floodlights at the stadium, which initially posed difficulties for hosting the match in the evening. Despite hopes for a nighttime fixture, it was ultimately determined to hold the match during the daytime, particularly given the significance of the timing amidst Ramadan.
The last-minute adjustment in scheduling has stirred discussions among stakeholders, especially considering that both Pakistan and Jordan are Muslim-majority nations. Traditionally, matches of this nature would be expected to take place after sunset during the holy month. However, logistical constraints necessitated the change, prompting authorities to opt for a daytime fixture.
Marked on the calendar for March 21, this crucial World Cup qualifier holds significant weight for both teams. Pakistan finds itself at the bottom of the group standings, having suffered consecutive defeats against Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan. On the contrary, Jordan enters the match with a recent runner-up finish in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, showcasing their formidable presence on the field. Ranked third in the World Cup qualifier group, Jordan has drawn and lost one match each, demonstrating their competitive edge and determination to secure a spot in the upcoming tournament.