ORIGINALLY, INDIAN football team was scheduled to play 3 international friendly matches against Pakistan. According to latest media reports, these matches have been reduced to only 1 match. The match is now scheduled to be played in Pride Park ground at Derby on September 3, which also happens to be FIFA day.

It has been said that the decision has been taken as the Indian team has some commitment at home, which would make it difficult for both the nations to be involved in a longer series. This was stated by the Secretary of Pakistan Football Federation, Lt Col retd Ahmed Yar Lodhi.

Some officials of the Pakistan Football Federation also feared that there might not be any match between the two countries, which they did not want to happen. They felt it was better that they would at least play a single match. It would be a great chance for players from Pakistan to play against their rivals, India, who are said to possess a better team.

The Pakistan team would be playing more matches as they will play against some local football clubs too, on the first week of September after they play against India.