In a display of football prowess, the Pakistani street football team, known as Muslim Hands FC, has made a striking impression at the Norway Cup 2024. The team delivered an emphatic performance in their second match of the tournament, decisively defeating Vardeneset BK 5-0. This victory follows their resounding 6-1 win over Astor Footballklubb in their opening game, marking a strong start to their campaign.
Muslim Hands FC’s match against Vardeneset BK showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The team was led by Mohammad Kashif, who scored twice, and was ably supported by Mohammad Khan, Mohammad Adeel, and Shahid Anjum, each contributing a goal. The comprehensive 5-0 win reflects the team’s high level of preparation and skill, underlining their ambition to improve upon their runner-up finish from the previous year.
With two victories from two matches, Muslim Hands FC has demonstrated their intent to go one step further than their runner-up finish in the last edition of the tournament. In their first match, they defeated Astor Footballklubb 6-1, thanks to a brace from Abdul Ghani and goals from Mohammad Essa, Mohammad Junaid, Owais Ahmed, and Mohammad Khan. The team’s ability to score freely and manage the game effectively highlights their readiness and form as they advance through the group stages.
Previous Successes and Close CallMuslim Hands FC’s current form is a continuation of their impressive track record in international youth football. Last year, in the Norway Cup 2023, the team finished as runners-up, narrowly losing the final on penalties to Sola FK after an undefeated run through the tournament. Despite the defeat, their performance throughout the competition, with a remarkable tally of 28 goals scored and only three conceded, showcased their ability to dominate matches with high scorelines.
The team’s success in other international tournaments further underscores their competitive spirit. In the 2022 Street Child World Cup held in Doha, Qatar, they were unbeaten throughout the tournament but lost the final to Egypt on penalties. Their performance in the 2018 edition in Russia, where they were also runners-up, and their third-place finish in Brazil in 2014, reflect their consistent excellence on the global stage.
The Muslim Hands FC squad for the Norway Cup 2024 is a well-balanced mix of skilled players across all positions:
- Goalkeepers: Aryan, Adeel Ali Khan
- Defenders: Asad Nasir, Ubaidullah, Mohammad Adeel, Hamza Gul
- Midfielders: Mohammad Junaid, Mohammad Khan, Daniyal, Owais, Mohammad Osama
- Forwards: Mohammad Kashif, Isa Khan, Shahid Anjum, Abdul Ghani
This blend of talent and experience is pivotal to their campaign. The goalkeepers have shown resilience and reliability, while the defenders, led by Asad Nasir and Ubaidullah, have been instrumental in maintaining clean sheets. The midfielders, including Mohammad Khan and Owais, have been crucial in controlling the tempo and creating opportunities, while the forwards, especially Mohammad Kashif and Abdul Ghani, have been prolific in front of goal.
As Muslim Hands FC prepares for their final group match against Oystese IL Oystese/Norheimsund, the team’s focus will be on maintaining their momentum and securing a top spot in the group. Their performance so far suggests that they are well-positioned to make a deep run in the tournament. The team’s past experiences and current form make them strong contenders, and their supporters will be hopeful that this could be the year they clinch the title.
The Norway Cup 2024 provides a significant platform for Muslim Hands FC to showcase their skills and achieve their goal of becoming champions. With their current form and the depth of talent in their squad, the team is poised for a successful campaign.