Haras Zaib Becomes First Pakistani to Join FIFA Club World Cup Squad

Born in New Zealand in 2001, Zaib holds dual citizenship in Pakistan and New Zealand, making him eligible to represent the Pakistan national football team.

For the first time in history, a Pakistani footballer will participate in the FIFA Club World Cup, as Haras Zaib signs with New Zealand's Auckland City FC. 

Having secured their spot in the prestigious tournament by winning the OFC Champions League, Auckland City will face football giants like Germany's Bayern Munich, Argentina's Boca Juniors, and Portugal's Benfica in this year's competition.

Haras Zaib, 23, has already begun pre-season training with Auckland City ahead of the tournament. Born in New Zealand in 2001, Zaib holds dual citizenship in Pakistan and New Zealand, making him eligible to represent the Pakistan national football team. 

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He was previously called up for Pakistan's squad in the 2023 Four-Nation Tournament but was sidelined due to an injury that kept him from competing in Mauritius.

Despite the setback, Zaib remains committed to representing Pakistan internationally and has already informed the Pakistan Football Federation of his availability. His participation in the FIFA Club World Cup marks a significant milestone for Pakistani football, inspiring a new generation of players from the region.