Unbelievable Victory: Pakistan Coach's Emotional Reaction to Historical World Cup Qualifying Win Leaves Players in Tears

After Pakistans mens national football team secured its first-ever World Cup qualifying round victory with a 1-0 win over Cambodia at Islamabads Jinnah Sports Stadium, head coach Stephen Constantine expressed his astonishment, stating that he had never witnessed such an overwhelming display of emotion as numerous grown men shed tears of joy. The winning goal was scored by Harun Hamid in the 67th minute.

The country has achieved its first international triumph since 2018. After a draw in the initial match against Cambodia, the team secures its progression to the second round of Asia's World Cup 2026 qualification process. Constantine expressed astonishment at the overwhelming atmosphere, mentioning that he has never witnessed so many grown men in tears before.

It is a momentous occasion for them. Throughout their 75-year history, this marks the first time they have advanced to the second stage. Furthermore, they have not achieved a victory since 2018, and it has been eight and a half years since their last home game. The emotions surrounding this achievement are indescribable.

I have barely been here for three and a half weeks, if even that. Nevertheless, I am genuinely thrilled for the individuals involved, including the players and supporters of Pakistan football.

Constantine watches from the bench during his time as manager of India.

Li shanze/IImaginechina/AP

Constantine was hired as the teams head coach in September, after a run of 13-straight defeats.

The 61-year-old has previously managed Nepal, Malawi, Sudan, Rwanda, and India, and now Pakistan, ranked 197th in the world, will proceed to compete against Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Jordan in the second round of qualifying starting in November.

"We have our next game scheduled against Saudi Arabia in November, which means it's time to face reality! My existing contract comes to an end within the next three days," he stated.

"I understand that they are unable to offer me a complete one or two-year extension. The PFF (Pakistan Football Federation) will need to devise a plan of some kind. I presume they desire my continued presence, but only time will tell."

In recent years, Pakistan has encountered various challenges, including its recent suspension from FIFA due to "unwarranted third-party involvement" in 2021.

"With an irregular football schedule and half of the players juggling part-time jobs, the double result becomes even more remarkable. Several of them haven't even played for months," stated Constantine.