FIFA World Cup -2018 Qualifying Match Pak Vrs.Yemen In Lahore Called Off Due To Security Reasons

17 March, Lahore

The Pakistan Football Federation has said that the second leg of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Pakistan and Yemen in Lahore Tuesday has been called off.

The scheduled match was called off because of security situation and tension in Lahore after violent protests by Christians continued for the second day Monday .

Earlier, uncertainty hovered over the fate of the match due to Sunday’s suicide bombings at two churches.

Pakistan Football Federation Marketing Director Sardar Naveed Haider said that the match has been called off after consultations with the FIFA match officials.

He said, the situation was unfortunate and it was true that the Yemen contingent had been anxious and tense about playing the match. Pakistan needed a 2-0 win to qualify for the next round, after they were beaten in the first leg 3-1.

Haider said, a pre-Olympic qualifying round group tournament in Lahore from March 23rd has also been called off due to the security situation.