After defeating Saudi Arabia 3–0, Afghanistan’s futsal players were formally reminded of their responsibility to advance in one of the tournament’s toughest groups.
Jakarta | By Taieb Khatizwal
Following Afghanistan’s emphatic 3–0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup in Indonesia, the national futsal team received a high-level visit that underscored rising expectations rather than celebration.
Ahmadullah Wasiq, Director General of the Olympic, Physical Education and Sports Authority, met the players on the sidelines of the tournament, praising the opening win while explicitly urging them to remain disciplined and focused on their broader national responsibility.
The meeting signaled increased institutional attention on the team’s performance as Afghanistan competes in Group D, widely regarded as one of the most difficult groups in the tournament. Wasiq’s remarks framed the Saudi victory not as an achievement in itself, but as a starting point that must be followed by consistency and results.
Team representatives welcomed the encouragement and stated that preparations for the next match against Malaysia were complete, expressing confidence in maintaining their momentum under growing pressure.
The AFC Futsal Asian Cup is being hosted by Indonesia in Jakarta, featuring 16 national teams and running from 27 January to 7 February.
Afghanistan is grouped with Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Iran. The team opened its campaign with a dominant 3–0 win over Saudi Arabia, instantly placing itself in contention for advancement from a highly competitive group.