KABUL - Afghanistan’s 2-0 win over India for the South Asian Football Federation Championship trophy was a historic occasion – the country’s first such international football victory.

The win has also seen the Afghanistan National Football Team rise seven places in FIFA’s world rankings table to the 132^nd spot – another cause for celebration.

Last week’s victory is much more than just a sporting achievement. After decades of war, this triumph was rightly seen as another powerful symbol of Afghanistan’s return to normal times, acknowledged on the international stage. The exuberant celebrations were also a demonstration of national unity and pride.

I take this occasion to congratulate the team and wish it the very best in its future matches.