Can Qatar’s Tahsin become the first Malayali to score at World Cup? A nation waits in hope

"We watched Maradona play. We watched Messi and Ronaldo. And now, Tahsin is set to play in the World Cup where they once showed their brilliance." As he spoke, pride and excitement were evident on the face of Hanifa, a close family friend of Tahsin Mohammed and president of the Valapattanam Football Academy.

"This is the result of his hard work. I thought Tahsin would represent Qatar at the next World Cup. But he is playing in the tournament even before turning 20," Hanifa said.

Ever since news broke that Tahsin Mohammed, who once kicked a football around the fields and roads of Valapattanam, had earned a place on football's biggest stage, excitement has gripped the entire town. Hanifa's words reflected the magnitude of the achievement attained by the 19-year-old.

"Ever since he made it to Qatar's senior team, Tahsin's dream was to play in the World Cup. Four years ago, when I went to Qatar to watch the World Cup, I told his parents that I hoped Tahsin would become the first Malayali to play in the tournament. I never imagined he would achieve it at such a young age. I believe he won't just play in the World Cup—he will become the first Malayali to score too. Watching him play in the tournament should give us goosebumps. That's the moment we're all waiting for," Hanifa said confidently.

Although Tahsin was born in Qatar, he spent part of his childhood in Valapattanam, playing football on local roads and grounds. His passion for the sport began early and continued to grow, first in Kerala and later in Qatar. As he impressed with his performances, the young Malayali became a sensation among football fans there.

Tahsin represented Qatar at the Under-16 and Under-17 levels before earning a call-up to the senior national team. Known for his blistering pace on the wings, his rise to the senior squad was equally quick. Securing a place in Qatar's World Cup squad has now brought him to a historic milestone.

"Tahsin's father, Jamshid, was also a footballer. As a child, Tahsin often accompanied his father to the football ground. Jamshid represented India at the Under-19 level and played alongside Jo Paul Ancheri. He had the potential to reach great heights but injuries prevented him from progressing further. What he couldn't achieve, he is now achieving through his son. I believe Tahsin will play and score in the World Cup. Just as people support Messi and Neymar, they should support Tahsin too," Hanifa added.

Relatives and residents of Valapattanam are equally excited. "Everyone is thrilled. The town is preparing for this moment. Flex boards have been put up everywhere. We all pray that Tahsin scores at least one goal in the World Cup," said his relative Sabith.

Parveena, another family member, described the achievement as a proud moment for the family. "We are immensely proud. I hope he scores in the tournament and grows into a great player. This is not just a matter of pride for Valapattanam but for all Indians," she said.

Another relative, Siraj, echoed the sentiment. "We are proud and happy that Tahsin has made it to Qatar's World Cup squad. I pray he reaches even greater heights. He visited Valapattanam three or four years ago. I remember seeing him standing in the rain and asking if he would catch cold. He replied that he was used to playing in the rain. His parents and the entire family are overjoyed. We hope he takes the field and scores in the very first match. May he play in every World Cup to come," Siraj said.

Tahsin Mohammed is son of Jamshid and Shaima, natives of Valapattanam in Kannur. He was part of Qatar's squad for the World Cup qualifiers last year and made his senior international debut against Afghanistan in a World Cup qualifying match in June 2024. He currently plays for Qatar Stars League club Al-Duhail SC.