Teenage winger could become the first footballer of Kerala origin to feature in a FIFA World Cup match
A young footballer with family roots in Kerala is on the verge of making history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after being included in Qatar’s tournament squad.
Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid, a 19-year-old winger born in Qatar to Malayali parents from Kerala’s Kannur district, has emerged as a symbol of pride for football fans in both Qatar and India. His selection in Qatar’s 26-man World Cup squad makes him one of the most prominent Indian-origin players at the tournament and places him within touching distance of a historic World Cup appearance.
Tahsin, who developed through Qatar’s renowned Aspire Academy system and currently plays for Al-Duhail, has steadily progressed through the country’s youth ranks before earning recognition at senior level. His football journey has attracted significant attention in Kerala, where supporters are closely following his progress on the global stage.
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Interest in the youngster intensified during Qatar’s opening Group B match against Switzerland
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Although it remained unclear whether he would feature from the start, his presence in the squad marked a milestone for players of Kerala origin
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Reports from Kerala highlighted widespread anticipation among football fans hoping to see him become the first Malayali player to appear in a World Cup match
Qatar began its campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Switzerland, securing the nation’s first-ever World Cup point thanks to a dramatic late equaliser. Goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada was named Man of the Match after a series of crucial saves, helping Qatar earn a valuable result in a tightly contested group.
For Tahsin, the World Cup represents the latest chapter in a rapid rise through Qatari football. Should he take to the field during the tournament, he will not only achieve a personal milestone but also create a significant moment for Kerala’s football community and the wider Indian diaspora.
