The negotiations of Pakistan vs Argentina friendly have commenced, marking an ambitious move to the Pakistan national football team as it seeks to enter into partnerships with the strongest football countries in the world such as Argentina national football team.
There is more than a possible match in the initial negotiations the Pakistan Football Federation has with the Argentine Football Association. The project is a part of a larger process of the development of the football ecosystem of Pakistan based on technical cooperation.
The online conference was between officials on practical areas of development. These are coaching training, formal training courses, and potential tours by Argentine coaches to Pakistan. This exposure may be a game-changer to a system that has long been plagued by inconsistency and infrastructure holes.
The friendly, which is proposed, is supposed to occur after the FIFA World Cup. Though schedules are yet to be established, both parties are strategically evaluating logistics, timing and competitive preparation prior to making it official.
It is not simply playing a high profile game in the case of Pakistan. With Mohsen Gillani, a push to get back to international football and form meaningful partnerships can be seen. Playing against a world champion such as Argentina would be a great experience and exposure to the world.
It also is an indicator of diplomatic support as the embassy of Pakistan was involved in Argentina. After the initiation of AFA Pakistan, both federations seem to be on track to create a long term relationship and not a one time affair. Provided that this plan comes to fruition, it may represent a turning point. Not only to have matchday excitement, but also to have a sustainable football development in Pakistan.
