ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Myanmar, scheduled for March 31 at Jinnah Stadium here will be played without spectators due to government directives on public gatherings, the country’s football federation announced on Thursday.

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) said that in line with the federal government’s policy of suspending events involving more than 200 people amid the prevailing global and regional situation, coupled with austerity and fuel conservation measures, the match will take place in an empty stadium.

The decision comes as a disappointment to football enthusiasts who had shown keen interest in what will be the final fixture of Pakistan’s qualifying campaign in Group ‘E’.

All fans who had already purchased tickets will receive automatic refunds through the original payment method used at the time of booking, the PFF confirmed in a statement.

Pakistan currently sit at the bottom of their group with just two points from five matches, having managed two draws against Afghanistan and suffered heavy defeats, including a 0-5 thrashing by Syria in their most recent home outing in November last year.

The PFF expressed gratitude for the “wide interest” shown by fans in attending the match and apologised for the inconvenience caused.

“We look forward to welcoming them back in the future for what promises to be exciting football encounters,” the federation said.

Published in Dawn, March 27th, 2026