Kiyan Nassiri: On the Verge of His National Team Breakthrough

Kiyan Nassiri, a 23-year-old forward, has received his first national team call-up for the Intercontinental Cup. Despite handling family expectations and a high-pressure environment, Nassiri is focused on seizing the moment and proving his merit both at the national and club levels.

Kiyan Nassiri is a man on a mission, relentlessly striving to take the next step, whether big or small. The 23-year-old forward recently celebrated his first national team call-up as the Blue Tigers compete in the Intercontinental Cup in Hyderabad. India played to a 0-0 draw against Mauritius in their opening match and are set to face Syria on September 9.

In his first camp, Nassiri expressed his joy and readiness to perform if called upon. 'I am just happy to be here, honestly. It is my first camp, and I was very excited when my name came up. If the coach feels the time is right to give me my first cap, I will be ready to take it,' Nassiri told the All India Football Federation (AIFF). He added that he cherishes training alongside India's top 25 players, emphasizing his eagerness to seize future opportunities through hard work.

Accustomed to the pressures of living up to his football-royalty heritage, Nassiri remains focused on carving out his own path. 'People are always putting pressure on me because of the family I come from. But I never let it affect me. I am trying to find my own rhythm,' he remarked. His next immediate goal? Making a successful national debut and contributing to a triumphant Intercontinental Cup campaign.

(With inputs from agencies.)