Afghanistan vs Pakistan - Friendlies

The Friendlies returns to the home ground on June 7, 2026, where Afghanistan and Pakistan will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Manchester City face the K-League All-Stars in Seoul on Wednesday as part of their pre-season tour of Asia.

There is plenty riding on this Friendlies encounter for Afghanistan and Pakistan alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. It’s safe to say that Paige Bueckers is putting up elite all-around numbers in her second WNBA season for the Dallas Wings, averaging over 20 points and nearly six assists a night.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Afghanistan may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Pakistan have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. But this approach also takes something that is almost anonymous in football - time.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer M. Sabitzer, with 3 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Man Utd have made an offer to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba before the summer transfer deadline.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. With positions in the Friendlies table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.