A Glimmer of Hope as Pakistani-Origin Football Star Aqsa Mushtaq Joins S.S.C Napoli

As Pakistan’s football scene continues to prove fruitless, with barely any real competition provided locally, many of our talented players sit hand-in-hand waiting for an opportunity to prove themselves and make a career out of the sport they love.

The situation for women however was even dire since there had been no good news coming out of the woman’s side for football. Without a breakthrough, and lack of direction for many of the young players it was hard for anyone to take football in Pakistan seriously.

Despite these discouraging circumstances we are met with a rising young star Aqsa Mushtaq, making a name for herself in women’s football internationally. Recently signed by the Italian football club Napoli, she is set to compete in the world famous Serie-A league, a big step for someone looking to solidify their career. Playing for Napoli is the perfect opportunity, with names such as Diego Maradona once being in the line-up of the men’s team.

The 22-year old Aqsa, originally from Pakistan resides in Bradford, England. She previously played midfield for the club Lenoir-Rhyne University where she stood out and was scouted by S.S.C Napoli due to her outstanding performance.

Mushtaq, whilst playing for Lenoir-Rhye, was named the South Atlantic Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year while leading her team to a No. 8 national ranking, the highest it’s ever been and a SAC Regular Season Championship. Her stats were outstanding at 13 goals and four assists in the 19 games she played.

Aqsa Mushtaq has proven to have a bright future ahead of her and breathes a new life in the local Pakistani football scene, giving a glimmer of hope to the players and fans, where once they were only met with disappointment.