By: Abubakar Bin Tallat
ISLAMABAD: In an effort to identify talented young football players from underprivileged backgrounds, the second phase trials for the Pakistan street children team competing in the prestigious 2023 Norway Cup have begun. The trials, organized by Muslim Hands, a charity based in Islamabad, aim to select a 16-member team to represent the country in the forthcoming tournament.
Pakistan, having received a special invitation, is set to participate in the Norway Cup scheduled to take place from July 29th to August 5th in Oslo. The country’s involvement in the tournament follows a commendable performance in the Street Child World Cup held in Doha, Qatar last year, where Pakistan secured an impressive second-place finish.
The first phase of trials took place in various regions of Azad Kashmir, including Rawalakot, Bagh, Bhimber, and Kotli. After evaluating talented young players from these areas, the second phase commenced with trials conducted in different cities of Punjab, namely Bhera, Wazirabad, and Lahore.
Muslim Hands, known for its humanitarian work and dedication to empowering marginalized communities, has taken on the crucial responsibility of selecting the 16-member team. The charity’s commitment to providing opportunities for disadvantaged youth aligns perfectly with the goal of this initiative.
With the trials now underway in Wazirabad, the selection process promises to be intense and rigorous. The evaluation will focus on both individual skills and teamwork, as the selectors strive to identify the most promising players who demonstrate exceptional talent, determination, and sportsmanship.
As the trials progress, anticipation builds among the young participants and the football community at large, eager to witness the formation of a skilled team that will represent Pakistan on the international stage. The selected street children team will not only have the opportunity to showcase their talents but also represent the resilience and spirit of Pakistani youth.
The final 16-member team, once chosen, will undergo intensive training and preparation before embarking on their journey to Oslo. Their participation in the Norway Cup not only offers a chance to compete against teams from around the world but also provides a platform to advocate for the rights and well-being of street children globally.
The Pakistan street children team’s inspiring journey continues, as they strive to leave a lasting impression on the world stage and make their country proud.