Women’s Mini Football World Cup Concludes with Egypt’s Triumph – Erbil Writes a New Chapter in Sporting Diplomacy

ERBIL
Some cities are remembered for their history, culture, and hospitality, and Erbil — the capital of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region — is one of them. Home to the ancient citadel that bears witness to thousands of years of civilization, Erbil recently wrote a new story of its own. Hosting the Women’s Mini Football World Cup, the city not only lit up the sporting arena but also brought nations together on one platform, sending a powerful message of peace, friendship, and sportsmanship to the world.
The six-day mega event was a vibrant blend of colors, lights, music, and enthusiasm. The grand finale featured two powerhouses — Egypt and Brazil. After a thrilling encounter that ended 1-1 in regular time, the match was decided on penalties. Egypt held their nerve, converting three spot kicks, while Brazil missed one, allowing the Egyptians to lift the coveted trophy. The celebrations that followed — fireworks, music, and traditional dance — turned the final night into a memory to cherish.
Kurdistan Region’s Prime Minister Masrour Barzani was the chief guest, welcoming participants and praising the role of sports in promoting peace and unity across the region.
While the Pakistan women’s team did not win a medal, they captured hearts with their courage, discipline, and sportsmanship. Facing seasoned sides like Egypt and Brazil, the Pakistani players showed resilience and fighting spirit. Even in defeat, they displayed remarkable composure, earning admiration from fellow teams and spectators alike.
Beyond the field, Pakistan’s delegation transformed the tournament into an exercise in cultural diplomacy. The players and officials enthusiastically joined in the closing ceremony’s traditional Kurdish dance and music, embodying the unifying spirit of sport. More significantly, they carried gifts of cultural heritage from home. Using their own resources, the officials purchased traditional Chitrali caps, shawls, and Pashtun crafts from Peshawar’s historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar and presented them at Erbil Airport to those who welcomed the team. These tokens of goodwill, also offered to event organizers and government officials, were received with joy and warmth.
During the opening ceremony, when the Pakistani delegation adorned various officials and dignitaries with the traditional caps and shawls, the atmosphere lit up with appreciation and affection. Several notable personalities even requested these cultural gifts themselves. This act of hospitality enhanced Pakistan’s image, proving that athletes are indeed ambassadors of their nations. The Pakistani team upheld this responsibility with grace, representing their country not only through sporting talent but also through values of generosity, friendship, and respect.
The tournament featured strong participation from Brazil, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and others. Pakistan’s delegation was led by Pakistan Mini Football Federation President Malik Hidayat-ul-Haq, with coach Ahmad Zaman and team manager Abdul Rasheed Anwar accompanying the squad. Together, they demonstrated that Pakistan can represent itself on the global stage not just through competition but also by sharing its culture and values.
While Pakistan may have fallen short in the medal race this time, their presence at such a major international competition was itself an achievement. The players proved that passion and perseverance can overcome the challenges of limited resources. Today, they have won the hearts of the world — and tomorrow, that spirit could very well translate into victories on the field.
The Women’s Mini Football World Cup has become a shining chapter in Erbil’s sporting history. It reaffirmed that sport is not merely about winning trophies, but about fostering unity, peace, and human connection. Pakistan’s team, though medal-less, returned with something far greater: a new identity on the global stage, built on moral strength, friendly conduct, and cultural diplomacy.