Kiyan Nassiri’s Journey: From Kolkata to India’s National Football Team

Kiyan Nassiri, a 23-year-old forward, is on a mission to make his mark in football. He has just received his first call-up to the Indian national team for the Intercontinental Cup in Hyderabad. India played a 0-0 draw against Mauritius in their first game and will face Syria on September 9.

Excitement and Determination

Nassiri expressed his excitement about being part of the national team camp. He said, “I am just happy to be here, honestly. It is my first camp, and I was very excited when my name came up.” He is ready to make his debut if given the chance but is also content with training alongside the best players in the country.

Familiar Faces and New Challenges

Despite being new to the national team, Nassiri feels at home with familiar faces around. He started his football journey in Kolkata with Mohammedan Sporting and later moved to Mohun Bagan. He gained fame in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a hat-trick against East Bengal in 2022.

Legacy and Pressure

Nassiri comes from a football family, with his father, Jamshid Nassiri, being a renowned player in the 1980s. However, Nassiri is focused on carving his own path. He said, “People are always putting pressure on me because of the family I am from. But I never let it affect me.”

Future Goals

Now playing for Chennaiyin FC, Nassiri aims to score more goals and provide more assists to secure more opportunities in international football. He is determined to work hard and improve himself, whether or not he makes his debut in the current international window.

India will next play Syria in the final match of the Intercontinental Cup at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Hyderabad on September 9 at 7.30 pm IST.