RKI Network
(Report by Ghulam Farid)
Islamabad Capitals and Peshawar Azmary emerged victorious in the thrilling conclusion of Sohni Dharti Junior Football Season 2, showcasing exceptional talent and sportsmanship
Al Khor, Qatar – The much-anticipated 14-day-long Sohni Dharti Junior Football Season 2 concluded with thrilling finals as Islamabad Capitals and Peshawar Azmary clinched the championship titles in their respective age groups. Organized by Sohni Dharti Forum, a leading Pakistani community platform in Al Khor, the tournament provided a dynamic sporting experience for young athletes, fostering teamwork, discipline, and competitive spirit.
The tournament featured 168 players, divided into two age groups: 7-12 years and 13-17 years. A total of 15 teams participated, named after major Pakistani cities to promote national pride and cultural awareness. The matches were held under floodlights at Al Khor Community’s newly installed AstroTurf Field #1, creating an electrifying atmosphere for players and spectators alike.
Final Showdown – Islamabad Capitals and Peshawar Azmary Emerge Victorious
In the 7-12 years category, Islamabad Capitals faced Multan Saints in a nail-biting final. Abdullah Farooq gave the Capitals an early lead with a remarkable field goal, but Azaan Baig quickly equalized for the Saints. However, Uzair Asif netted the decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory for the Capitals in an intense battle showcasing exceptional skills and goalkeeping performances.
In the 13-17 years category, Peshawar Azmary triumphed over Lahore Warriors in a thrilling 3-2 contest. The match saw fierce competition, with both teams attacking relentlessly. Rayyan Khan scored a hat-trick for Azmary, while Hassan Sohail netted twice for the Warriors. Azmary held their nerve to seal a stunning victory, displaying impressive passing, dribbling, and strategic gameplay.
A Grand Celebration and Prize Distribution Ceremony
The final matches drew a large crowd, with live streaming on Sohni Dharti’s Facebook page. A special cake-cutting ceremony was held before the finals, featuring a customized green-colored cake symbolizing the event’s spirit.
- Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Community Welfare Attaché Usama Idrees (Pakistan Embassy), Obaid Tahir (The most trusted Asian Social Media influencer in Qatar, Former Senior Producer-News Editor FM107), Principal Pakistan International School Qatar Chaudhry Muhammad Afzal, and renowned community figures such as Rashid Latif, Rana Shakeel Anjum, Moeen Khan, Iqbal Butt, Mala Waseem, and Shehla Khan.
Trophy Winners and Individual Awards:
- 7-12 years category: Hashir Sameer (Islamabad Capitals) lifted the championship trophy.
- 13-17 years category: Moiz Ahmad (Peshawar Azmary) celebrated his team’s victory.
- Best Goalkeeper (7-12 years): Mubashir Zubair
- Most Valuable Player (7-12 years): Ahmad Bilal
- Best Volunteer Award: Muhammad Bin Abid
- Best Goalkeeper (13-17 years): Muneeb Ashraf
- Most Valuable Player (13-17 years): Rayyan Khan
- Emerging Player Award: Ahmed Shahab
To encourage participation, two players from each team were awarded the Most Dedicated Player Award, selected by their respective captains. In recognition of their efforts, all junior team coaches received commemorative trophies, including Aqeel Rasheed (Islamabad Capitals), Umar Khayam (Multan Saints), Mirza Danish (Sargodha Shaheens), Muhammad Abid Jilani (Lahore Warriors), Shafqaat Hussain (Peshawar Azmary), Imran Hussain (Hunza Horsemen), Asghar Nadeem (Skardu Stars), Mohsin Ali (Karachi Knights), and Ghulam Farid (Quetta Gunners).
Encouraging Youth Through Sports
Chief guests congratulated the young athletes and praised the organizers for promoting sports within the Pakistani community. Sohni Dharti Chairman Anwar Ali Rana expressed his delight at witnessing the talent on display, emphasizing that such tournaments build confidence and nurture future football stars. He highlighted the importance of sportsmanship in developing resilience and teamwork in everyday life.
The event concluded with Chairman Anwar Ali Rana extending gratitude to Sports Secretary Zafar Chandio, all coaches, players, parents, and volunteers for ensuring the success of Sohni Dharti Junior Football Season 2. The vibrant trophies and colorful team kits remained a focal point of admiration throughout the evening, marking yet another successful edition of this celebrated tournament.
