Proud to be compared with great footballers: Maria Khan

Pakistan women’s football team captain Maria Khan is happy to be compared to legendary footballers following her free-kick goal against Saudi Arabia in the four-nation cup at Al Khobar.

Pakistan tied Saudi Arabia at Prince Saud bin Jalawi Stadium in their final match to finish second with four points.

Maria, the tournament’s finest player, struck a long-range shot to help Pakistan equalise and draw.

Maria said: “After my Saudi Arabia free-kick goal, I am proud to be connected with famous footballers. I’m proud of my family’s sporting legacy, and I’m trying to help football.”

The Pak Shaheens captain said the four-nation cup’s biggest good was that the national women’s team garnered recognition, which she hoped would continue.

Pakistan won a 65th-minute free-kick against the hosts. Everyone in the box waited for Pakistan skipper Maria’s lofted pass, but she took a shot from distance that the Saudi Arabia goalkeeper couldn’t stop.

“My objectives being compared to great players makes me proud. I tried to score with the free-kick. My goal was acknowledged. I’m honoured. I want to score similar goals for Pakistan “she stated.

Maria is the granddaughter of seven-time British Open champion Hashim Khan, who played squash professionally.

“I’m proud of my athletics family. Sports are my family’s legacy. I play football, but my family plays squash. I want to help women’s sports, not only football. Working and playing football in Dubai “ended.