Islamabad (TDI): Gerrys Strikers were crowned champions of the 14th UAE Ambassador’s Cup Ramadan Football Tournament 2026 after a commanding 5-2 victory over Qatar Embassy in a thrilling final, highlighted by a stunning hat-trick from Khayam Khattak.
The prestigious annual tournament was organized by the UAE Embassy in Pakistan in collaboration with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), which provided full technical support to ensure smooth conduct of the competition.
In the grand finale, Gerrys Strikers delivered a dominant performance from the outset. Khayam Khattak led the charge with three superb goals, dazzling spectators with his pace and finishing ability. Saqib Anwar added another to strengthen Gerrys’ grip on the match.
Despite a spirited effort by Qatar Embassy, including a goal from Muhammad Abu, they were unable to contain Gerrys’ attacking prowess as the champions sealed an emphatic 5-2 triumph.
Earlier, in the third-place playoff, Afghanistan outclassed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) team with a convincing 4-1 win to secure the bronze position.
The closing ceremony drew members of the diplomatic corps, senior Pakistani government officials, representatives of various sports bodies and media personnel.
Read More: UAE Ambassador’s Cup Ramadan Football Tournament Kicks Off in Islamabad
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar graced the occasion as chief guest. He distributed prizes among the players alongside UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi and PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani.
The minister announced cash awards of Rs. 500,000 for the winning team, Rs. 300,000 for the runners-up, and Rs. 200,000 for the third-placed side, appreciating the players’ sportsmanship and competitive spirit.
Among those present were Member of the National Assembly Syeda Amnah Batool, ambassadors of Morocco, Lebanon, Afghanistan and Libya, the Deputy Head of Mission of Romania, senior Pakistani officials and members of the diplomatic community.
A total of 10 teams competed in 22 matches during the tournament, showcasing competitive football while strengthening people-to-people connections among diverse communities.
Held annually during the holy month of Ramadan, the UAE Ambassador’s Cup has become a prominent fixture in Islamabad’s sporting calendar.
The event underscores the UAE’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship, cultural exchange and community engagement, fostering goodwill and cooperation through sports diplomacy.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
