From Struggles to Triumph: Uvais Moyikkal Shines in Indian National Football Team

Uvais Moyikkal's Journey to the National Team

New Delhi [India], August 31: Just a few years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Muhammed Uvais Moyikkal faced challenges in securing a spot with any football club. Fast forward to today, the defender from Malappuram, Kerala, has made his mark in the senior Indian men's national team, as reported by the All India Football Association (AIFF).

The past weeks have been a whirlwind for the 27-year-old, who was first named among the probables and then secured a place in the final squad for the CAFA Nations Cup 2025. He even made it to the starting lineup for India's inaugural match in this Central Asian tournament.

Remarkably, just five minutes into his debut, Uvais's long throw set up India's opening goal, igniting hopes for the team—a feat he could hardly have imagined a month prior.

“I always dreamed of representing India, but it was when Khalid Jamil took over as head coach that I felt I might get my chance,” Uvais shared with the AIFF.

“Being included in the probables was a surprise for me since I wasn't initially part of the selection,” he added.

Reflecting on the last couple of weeks, Uvais expressed, “It’s been overwhelming with congratulatory calls from everyone. Each time I donned the jersey for training, I felt a rush of excitement that fueled my motivation.”

Uvais was not just a spectator; he was taken aback when he learned he would debut against Tajikistan, a match India won 2-1, marking their first competitive victory since November 2023.

“I was speechless when the coach announced the lineup. But as we stepped out and the national anthem played, it hit me. I’m not usually emotional, but this was different,” he recounted, as noted on the AIFF website.

His long throw was pivotal in securing India's first goal. “I didn’t have a specific plan; I just aimed to deliver the ball into a good area for Sandesh (Jhingan) paaji,” he explained.

“However, this is no time to rest on our laurels. We’ve achieved an important win, but we face a formidable opponent in IR Iran next, and we must be ready,” Uvais cautioned.

Growing up in Malappuram, Uvais was immersed in football from a young age, with his father coaching at the local level while managing a business.

Despite his current success, Uvais and his family faced significant challenges, especially during the pandemic when he struggled to find clubs.

“It was a tough period. With limited football activity, the demand for players was low,” he recalled.

“We were aware of the financial difficulties at home, but my father always ensured we had what we needed,” Uvais shared, mentioning his brother, Muhammed Unais, who also plays for Roots FC in Bengaluru.

After a brief stint at Kerala SEB in the Kerala league, Uvais found redemption when Gokulam Kerala offered him a chance. Winning the I-League in 2021-22 with the Malabarians opened doors to the Indian Super League with Jamshedpur FC, where he played under Jamil for a couple of seasons.

“Khalid coach is always thinking about football. What I appreciate most is his ability to simplify the game. He encourages us to keep it straightforward and has shown great trust in me,” Uvais remarked.

Following their victory against Tajikistan, India is set to face Iran in their next Group B match in the CAFA Nations Cup.