The Lahore District Football Championship made an exciting return after more than a decade, thrilling fans with competitive matches and standout performances on the opening day. Held across three different grounds, the tournament saw teams display passion, skill, and determination, marking a strong revival of grassroots football in the city.
ZKFC Dominate Defending Champions in Opening Match
In the opening match at the Fame Football Club Ground, ZKFC delivered a stunning performance, defeating defending champions Saleem Khan FC by a massive 9-0 margin. Despite entering the field with only seven players, Saleem Khan FC struggled to keep up, failing to score a single goal against the dominant ZKFC side.
ZKFC’s coordination, speed, and finishing ability impressed both fans and officials, setting an early benchmark for the rest of the competition.
Murad FC Triumphs in Penalty Shootout
The second match, played at the Township United Ground, turned into a nail-biter between Murad FC and Real Lahore. Both teams ended the match tied at 2-2 in regular time, forcing the game into a penalty shootout. Murad FC kept their nerves steady and clinched victory in a tense finish, earning crucial early points in the championship.
Cantt United Overpowers Shahdara United
The third clash at RA Bazaar Ground featured a strong performance from Cantt United, who secured a 3-1 win over Shahdara United. Cantt United’s attacking play and disciplined defense helped them control the match from the start, leaving Shahdara struggling to find rhythm.
DFA Lahore President Praises Young Talent
Speaking at the event, Zia Arif Dogar, President of the District Football Association (DFA) Lahore, expressed his satisfaction over the successful revival of the championship. He praised the young players for their energy and commitment, emphasizing that such tournaments are crucial for the development of football in Lahore.
“The way these young players have performed shows that the future of football in Lahore is bright,” said Dogar. “The association is committed to providing more opportunities and improving the overall standard of the game.”
A Promising Future for Lahore Football
The return of the District Football Championship after 12 years has brought renewed hope to local football enthusiasts. With passionate teams, strong community support, and a clear focus on player development, Lahore appears ready to reclaim its place as one of Pakistan’s key football hubs.