Zidane Iqbal: The first player of Pakistani origins at the World Cup

Zidane Iqbal, former Manchester United talent, is on track to make history as the first footballer of Pakistani roots to play at the World Cup. Although he represents Iraq, the moment will be especially important for fans from Pakistan, a country with the fifth largest population in the world whose football team has never advanced to the World Cup. Born and raised in Manchester, Iqbal is of Pakistani descent on his father's side and Iraqi on his mother's side. Even though he plays for Iraq, his choice of shoes that feature the flags of both countries shows how much he values ​​both sides of his heritage. "I wear the Iraqi flag on my left and the Pakistani flag on my right. It's a sign of respect for both sides of my family," says Iqbal.  His story inspires many young Pakistanis who support Iraq during the tournament. Ahmed Shahzad, who runs the Pakistani Talents social media account, notes how important it is for the development of football in the country. "Every Pakistani football fan knows Zidane Iqbal. He is a great inspiration to young Pakistanis, both locally and in the diaspora," emphasizes Shahzad. Iraq, which has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, will compete with teams such as France, Norway and Senegal. Iqbal believes that his team can surprise the world. "We are going there without pressure. We are outsiders, but if we win, we will surprise the world," he says. Zidane Iqbal is not only a footballer, but also a symbol for young aspiring players from all walks of life, showing that success in football is possible regardless of origin.