India and Pakistan will lock horns this summer on the football pitch for the first time in England and Scotland. The two teams will meet on September 3 at Derby's Pride Park and on September 9 in Glasgow, Scotland. The match has received backing from high profile members from the sports and entertainment world, including England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.
"I am welcoming the India and Pakistan teams to the home of football," said Ferdinand. "This is a major breakthrough for both nations and I hope to see myself in India and Pakistan soon. "WBA and IBF light-welterweight world champion Amir Khan said the match took on great significance. "Football is one of the most popular sports amongst the Asian community in Britain and this match will prove to be very successful because of that," said Khan.
"I'm sure these matches will also be very beneficial for relations between the two countries because sport plays an important role in helping to unify people. I'm very excited about these games because it's always thrilling to see two rivals go up against one another". President PFF said: "This match will definitely go a long way in promoting bilateral relations between the two countries. I wish everyone best of luck." Praful Patel, President, All India Football Federation (AIFF) remarked "Playing Pakistan is always special.