Indian-Origin Footballers Set to Shine in FIFA World Cup 2026

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, four talented footballers of Indian origin are ready to represent their respective countries. Sarpreet Singh, Samuel Moutoussamy, Nishan Velupillay, and Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid will showcase their skills on the world stage, following the legacy of Vikash Dhorasoo, the first Indian-origin player in a World Cup final. Additionally, Duckens Nazon, a former ISL player, joins the Haiti squad. This article explores their journeys and the impact of their choices on Indian football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 09:56 IST

Indian Players Making Their Mark in International Football

Although the Indian national football team has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, four players of Indian descent are gearing up to compete. Sarpreet Singh will represent New Zealand, Samuel Moutoussamy will play for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nishan Velupillay will don the colors of Australia, and Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid will be part of Qatar's squad. While the Indian team has struggled recently, these athletes are excelling on the international stage. Many believe that Indian football could have progressed significantly if these talents had chosen to play for India. Unfortunately, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has yet to secure their representation for the national team.

Following the Legacy of Vikash Dhorasoo

These players are following in the footsteps of Vikash Dhorasoo, who made history as the first Indian-origin footballer to participate in a World Cup final in 2006. Dhorasoo played 18 matches for the French national team. Now, with four more Indian-origin players set to compete in the tournament, the legacy continues. Another player, Niall Mason, was close to joining the World Cup squad, having been part of Qatar's initial 34-member roster, but he did not make the final cut.

Former ISL Star Joins Haiti's World Cup Squad

This year's World Cup also includes a familiar face for Indian football enthusiasts. Duckens Nazon, who previously played for Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL), is now part of the Haiti national team. The 32-year-old striker arrived in India in 2016 and is remembered for his crucial goal against FC Pune City that led Kerala Blasters to the ISL playoffs. Nazon debuted for Haiti's senior team in 2014 and is their all-time leading scorer with 44 goals. Currently, he plays for a club in Iran and aims to score during the World Cup.

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