By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: The men’s football semi-final at the 35th National Games in Karachi descended into chaos on Wednesday as a post-match confrontation between Army and WAPDA players escalated into a violent brawl, eyewitnesses and officials said.
The incident occurred moments after Army completed a dramatic 4-3 comeback victory. Witnesses said that Army players celebrated close to WAPDA’s dugout, triggering a heated exchange that quickly turned physical. What began as verbal taunts turned the field into a battlefield, one spectator said, in a tournament where sportsmanship had largely prevailed.
Eyewitnesses added that during the melee officials from one of the teams chased referee Muzammil and assaulted him. Sources said the skirmish was unnecessary and blemished an event that had otherwise run smoothly. They said experienced players on both sides should have shown restraint, adding that the confrontation undermined the spirit of the Games.
Referees assessor Iqbal Junior has submitted his report to match commissioner Anwar, who is reviewing video footage of the incident. The clip, which circulated widely on social media, appears to show the sequence of events and individuals involved, officials said. A formal decision is expected after the review is completed.
WAPDA had taken a commanding 2-0 lead until first-half stoppage time when Army pulled one back from the penalty spot. Army added three more goals after the break to surge ahead 4-2 before WAPDA scored a late consolation goal.
Such clashes are not unprecedented. Similar incidents have been witnessed in previous domestic competitions including Premier League fixtures in Karachi in the past.
Sports officials said the responsibility for preventing such episodes lies partly with organisers who must ensure stronger security arrangements around high-stakes matches. They warned that repeated outbreaks of violence risk damaging the reputation and development of football in Pakistan.
Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) will need to implement stricter disciplinary measures, including lengthy bans for players and team officials found guilty of violent conduct on the field.
