Haris Zeb Makes FIFA Club World Cup History

Pakistani New Zealander Haris Zeb will make history when he will become the first ever Pakistani player to feature in FIFA Club World Cup following a move to join Auckland City FC.

The 23-year-old winger, who played for Birkenhead United, signed with Auckland City for training in preparation for the new season. With its qualification for enlarged 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, having won 2024 OFC Champions League, the club will face European giants Bayern Munich, South America’s largest player, Boca Juniors, and Portugal’s champion, Benfica, in group stage of competition, to be played in America.

Born on 15th May 2001 in New Zealand to a family with a Pakistan origin, Zeb holds dual nationality and is still qualified to represent Pakistan at an international level. Called for 2023 Mauritius Four Nations Cup national level, but not in a position to attend through an injury,

Before his migration to Auckland City, Zeb played for Christchurch United and Miramar Rangers in New Zealand, consistently developing himself in terms of career. His move is a significant achievement in preparation for him to feature in one of the largest platforms in club soccer.

Zeb has re-committed himself to Pakistan national level, having first been booked to join under then head trainer Shehzad Anwar, but whose first-team bow failed to materialise. With added expertise at top level, he aims to build Pakistan soccer onto a global platform.

His inclusion in Auckland City’s FIFA Club World Cup contingent is not only a reflection of individual success but a source of encouragement for aspiring Pakistan cricket followers