Pakistan head coach Nolberto Solano is putting the finishing touches on preparations for the national team as the Green Shirts gear up for their crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers next month. The Peruvian, best known for his playing days at Newcastle United, is expected to meet senior officials of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) this week to finalize plans for the national camp. According to federation sources, the training camp will likely kick off in Islamabad on either September 20 or 22, giving Solano a narrow window to shape his squad.
Afghanistan Test Looms Large
Pakistan will face Afghanistan twice in October, first at the Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad, on October 9, before meeting again in Kuwait on October 14, where Afghanistan will act as hosts. These fixtures mark Solano’s first senior assignment with Pakistan. He previously led the under-23s during the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers, but managing the senior side presents a different level of challenge, especially given the limited preparation time. Sources within the PFF indicate that major changes to the squad are unlikely, with Solano expected to retain much of the core group fielded under former coach Stephen Constantine. However, standout performers from the U23 setup have caught the coach’s eye, and a handful may be promoted into the senior probables list.
A Federation Finding Its Feet
The lead-up to these qualifiers has not been without hurdles. Pakistan’s football activities were hampered by funding constraints in recent months, leaving even secretariat staff unpaid since June. Encouragingly, officials now confirm that the PFF has reopened its bank account, and financial inflows are expected to stabilize operations. There may also be changes to the technical staff. According to insiders, Solano is considering replacing at least one assistant coach from the U23 setup, signaling his intent to put his own stamp on the national team structure.
Stadium and Squad Concerns
Another concern has been the playing surface at the Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium, which suffered damage due to non-sporting events earlier this year. Efforts are now underway to restore the pitch. “The grass was affected but it’s recovering well. We’re aiming for a lush, green surface suitable for international football,” said a source close to the ground staff.
With just a couple of weeks before the Afghan double-header, Solano faces the daunting task of preparing his squad both tactically and mentally. The Peru international’s experience in European and South American football will be tested as he seeks to inspire a side still searching for consistency.
Pakistan’s Group Challenge
Pakistan has been drawn in a tricky group alongside Afghanistan, Syria, and Myanmar. Results so far have been disappointing:
- A 2-0 loss to Syria in March in Saudi Arabia.
- A 1-0 defeat to Myanmar in June in Yangon.
The road ahead is demanding. After the Afghanistan fixtures, Pakistan will host Syria in Islamabad on November 18, 2025, before wrapping up their campaign against Myanmar on March 31, 2026. In total, 24 teams are vying for six remaining spots at the 2027 Asian Cup. Only the group winners will progress, joining the 18 nations already qualified from the second round.
Moment for Solano
For Solano, this assignment is an opportunity to lay down a marker for his tenure. His ability to blend emerging talent with experienced internationals, while managing the federation’s logistical and financial constraints, will go a long way in shaping Pakistan’s Asian Cup journey. As the shaheens prepare to march into battle, the spotlight is firmly on Islamabad, where a new chapter in Pakistan football begins under Solano’s watchful eye.