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LAHORE: Pakistan’s women’s national football team will make its debut in the FIFA Series in March and April 2026, marking the first time the country’s female side will take part in a global competition organized under the sport’s world governing body.
Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) announced on Thursday that FIFA haVE formally approved the inclusion of the women’s team in the expanded FIFA Series, a newly developed international competition designed to increase competitive opportunities for emerging football nations.
The move represents a milestone for women’s football in Pakistan which has suffered from limited international exposure and a lack of structured competition for years. The decision reflects growing recognition of the team’s development and the increasing standard of the women’s game in the country.
“This is a historic moment for Pakistan women’s football,” PFF president Mohsin Gilani said in a statement. “Participation in the FIFA Series opens the door for our players to test themselves against international opposition, gain valuable experience and raise the profile of the sport at home and abroad.” Gilani added that the federation hopes the team’s inclusion will inspire younger generations of female players.
Under the terms of the invitation Pakistan will compete in fixtures scheduled in Brazil, Ivory Coast and Thailand, with the programme expected to include a mix of friendly matches and group stage encounters as part of FIFA’s effort to broaden global participation outside traditional major tournaments. Specific opponents and match dates are due to be announced by FIFA in early 2026.
The FIFA Series was expanded this year to include a women’s competition for the first time, providing teams that do not regularly qualify for major tournaments such as the Women’s World Cup with structured international competition. The initiative aims to foster competitive balance and give developing associations more regular exposure to non-continental opponents.
Pakistan’s women’s team, currently ranked outside the top tier of women’s national sides, has steadily increased its participation in regional competitions in recent years. The side has also competed in Asian qualifiers and regional championships, gaining experience against higher-ranked teams across the continent.
Sources in the PFF said Pakistan’s entry into the Series will be covered under FIFA’s broader development programme, including logistical support and preparation assistance ahead of the competition.
