Excitement abounds for Pakistani football enthusiasts as Etzaz Hussain, a prominent player based in Norway, has acquired his Pakistani passport, rendering him eligible to join the national team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
The announcement, conveyed by Pakistan’s ambassador to Norway, Saadia Altaf Qazi, signifies a significant addition to Pakistan’s football roster.
Etzaz, at 30, currently plays for Apollon Limassol FC in the Cyprus league, boasting previous stints with Molde FK in Norway, where he shared the field with renowned players like Erling Haaland, now representing Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.
His inclusion is anticipated to fortify the Pakistani national team, addressing a gap in the central midfield, previously held by Rahis Nabi and Alamgir Ghazi. Etzaz’s proficiency in defensive midfield positions is expected to seamlessly integrate into the strategic plans devised by coach Stephen Constantine.
The upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March hold immense significance for Pakistan, marking their first-ever entry into the second round of qualification. The Men in Green are gearing up to face Jordan, with a home game scheduled for March 21, followed by an away match in Jordan on March 26.
This development follows Pakistan’s previous encounters in the competition against Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan, resulting in defeats of 4-0 and 6-1, respectively. Etzaz Hussain’s addition brings renewed hope and anticipation as Pakistan strives to make its mark in international football.
