KARACHI: The divisional qualifying rounds for Pakistan’s biggest-ever football tournament, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) Balochistan Football Cup 2018, kicked-off here on Saturday at Quetta, Kalat, Makran, Sibi, Zhob and Naseerabad simultaneously.

Exciting games were witnessed during the first two days by a large number of football lovers at all districts. Duki, Pasni City, Ziarat, Lehri and Kharan emerged winners, while the match between Chagai and Pishin resulted in a draw on the first day of the tournament.

The highlight of the day was the match at Zhob Division between Loralai and Duki. With a first hat-trick of the tournament by Mehrullah and excellent goals by Rozi Khan, Duki knocked out Loralai with a big margin of 5-1.

Saleem from Loralai managed the only goal for his team. Mehrullah was awarded Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

On the second day, eight matches were played around all six divisions with the most thrilling match proving to be between Sibi and Dera Bugti. Sibi emerged winner by defeating Dera Bugti by 5-1. Abid Ali of Sibi was Man of the Match with his three goals and an overall excellent performance that outplayed Dera Bugti’s defence.

Sherani, Harnai, Jhal Magsi, Lasbela and Khuzdar emerged victorious in other matches. Matches between Quetta City versus Chaman City and Turbat versus Panjgur City resulted in draws with no goals scored by any team.

The Qualifying Round will be played until February 26 followed by the Final Round commencing on March 1at Sadiq Shaheed Football Stadium (Malibagh), Quetta.

Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2018