Football Mela
At the Jallo Park Football Club Ground in Lahore, Bahawalpur defeated Faisalabad by a score of 2-1 in the championship match of the 5th All Pakistan Veteran Football Mela.
The final match of the famous event, according to the organizing secretary Sardar Naveed Haider Khan, was a riveting encounter with both finalists giving outstanding performances and pushing each other to their utmost. In the end, Bahawalpur’s tactical game plan allowed them to triumph, winning the championship with a score of 2-1.
In the preceding semifinals, Bahawalpur locked horns with Lahore, resulting in a goalless draw. The deadlock was broken through a penalty shootout, with Bahawalpur prevailing 3-1 against Lahore. Meanwhile, the second semifinal witnessed a close battle between Faisalabad and Karachi, with Faisalabad securing a slender 1-0 victory.
Distinguished veteran player Mian Abbas, also serving as the Chairman of the Pakistan International Football Veterans Association, showcased exceptional football skills by netting three crucial goals for the Lahore team. His outstanding performance earned him the coveted Golden Boot award. The chief guests, Malik Habib Awan (MPA) and Malik Waheed (MPA), presented the honors to the winners, runners-up, and standout performers.
The celebrations extended to the 76th Independence Day of the country, where a ceremonial cake cutting ceremony took place amidst a mesmerizing fireworks display. All matches of this esteemed tournament were broadcasted live on Metro Times Sport, receiving widespread praise from the national and international football community for its high-quality coverage.
Sardar Naveed Haider Khan remarked, “I extend my sincere gratitude to Mian Abbas for his invaluable support and particularly for spearheading the organization of this esteemed tournament. My heartfelt appreciation also goes to Pepsi for stepping up as the Brand Sponsor for this event, signifying a significant endorsement for our revered legendary players.”
