Pakistan coach Stephen Constantine was delighted for the country's football fans after their stunning win against Cambodia

The 1-0 triumph was Pakistan's first ever in a World Cup qualifier and only their second win in five years.

Englishman Constantine, who has coached Cyprus's Pafos in a varied career, said: “When you have a group of players who are willing to learn and ready to do things you need then to do, it makes it easier. I seem to get these jobs where it is mission impossible, something needs to be fixed or helped. I can't tell you, the outpouring from people has been unbelievable. They have many problems with facilities; they are coming off a double ban from Fifa. No football, there's no league in Pakistan.

“I came on the 29th of September, we did double [training] sessions! Players who play overseas joined us in Cambodia, I had a day with them, then we got a result there, 0-0 and based on chances I thought we could have won, then we did here. Just hard work and lots of discussions."

He also told BBC Sport: "It is an unbelievable atmosphere here, I've not seen so many grown men cry in all my life. It is a massive deal; in their 75 year history it is the first time they've qualified for the second stage, they haven't won since 2018, first home game in Lahore for eight and a half years.

“It has been unbelievably emotional for the local people, when you see the players play the way they did. I've only been here three and a half weeks, not even. I'm just really pleased for the people, the players and Pakistan football."