By Dr. Gauhar Mahmood Azeem, Editor FPDC
A decent performance but a very good result for the Pak Shaheens today as they won 2-0 against arch rivals India. Here are the player ratings for the game.
Muzammil Hussein 8
A sublime performance from the Pakistan and WAPDA number 1. A super save from a Chetri drive in the first half showed that Pakistan can rely on the lanky goal keeper between the sticks going forward. Had the confidence and the ability to come and claim the ball on corners and set pieces. Rest assured the only shots calamity Saqib is going to get with the National team soon are with his camera.
Faisal Iqbal 4
The vice captain was put to test early on in the game as India attacked from their left wing, made a couple of decent clearances before hobbling off to an injury early on.
M Ahmad 7.5
The most experienced player in the squad was solid at the back. India didn’t get clear chances in the game because of the speed, positioning and physique of Ahmad at the back. A bandage on his head was a testament he wasn’t letting a set piece land into the pakistan goal this time.
M Bilal 6.5
A clean sheet leaves little to complain. Was saved by Ahmad on a couple of occasions just like in the first game but was otherwise assured at centre back. The partnership is improving.
Ahsanullah 5.5
India identified Ahsanullah as the weak link and targeted him all through the game, got beat all too often and his crossing and cross field passes were erratic. We need a proper left back, and we need one quick. Only merit was being part of a clean sheet. Well done.
Saddam Hussein 8.5 (top of the match)
What an engine this guy has, top class, was all over the field during the game. Did his defensive duties brilliantly in the middle of the park and broke plays well. Out ran everyone in the last ten minutes twice to be one on one with the India goalie, and would’ve got a 9.5 if he’d finished the easier of the two chances. What a goal though, take a bow!
Bilawal Ur Rehman 6
Good partnership with Saddam in the middle and sat in front of the defence and protected them well till he was taken off at the half hour due to injury.
Mehmood Khan 6
The flashy midfielder didn’t cause a lot of problems to the Indians in the middle of the park. Leaves a lot to be desired, didn’t stamp his authority enough, wasn’t comfortable on the ball as much as he is playing in the league.
Sher Ali 5.5
Sher number 1, started the game, was anonymous for most of the time he was on. The Pakistan midfield didn’t keep the ball long enough.
Kaleemullah 8.5
A thing of beauty is joy forever, and what a beautiful 25 yard free kick from Kaleemullah it was. His goal gave Pakistan the lead, and the captains performance saw him being a constant threat to the Indians with the pacy strong forward from Chaman being almost too hot to handle.
Mansoor Khan 7
Loads of running from the PAF man, went wide often to take the ball and was willing to take people on. A better final ball would see him become even more dangerous in future.
Substitutes:
Mohsin Ali 6
Did well at right back, needs a bit more composure when on the ball. Replaced Faisal and didn’t let anyone feel the difference. Good game lad.
Sher Baloch 6
Had to come on at the half hour, used his physical prowess to great advantage, protected the defence but made a couple of rash challenges. Not too comfortable on the ball either
Riaz 6
Started the last game, came on in the second half for this one, could’ve played Kaleem for a few chances in the second half but was closed down quick and couldn’t get the accuracy in his crosses.
M Salman 6
Came on late to provide defensive cover. Did what he was asked to do.
Zesshan 5
Came on too late to make an impact but almost caused an on pitch Indo Pak war with a scorching tackle in the middle of the park, Fiesty