FIFA World Cup 2026: Kannur Native Tahsin Jamshid Named in Qatar’s Preliminary Squad

In a historic moment for the Malayali community, 19-year-old Tahsin Jamshid has been included in Qatar’s 34-member preliminary squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Announced by head coach Julen Lopetegui, the squad is gearing up for the tournament held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Tahsin, a talented winger who turns 20 next month, hails from Valapattanam, Kannur.

A Rising Star from Kannur to Qatar

Tahsin’s journey to the world stage is a testament to his rapid ascent in Middle Eastern football. He is the son of Jamshid, a former Calicut University footballer and Thalassery native, and Shaima.

• Early Success: Tahsin first gained attention in 2021 by joining Qatar’s Under-16 national team.
• Club Milestone: He made history as the first player of Indian origin to play in the Qatar Stars League, debuting for top-tier club Al Duhail in March 2024.
• Elite Training: A product of the renowned Aspire Academy, Tahsin scored his first goal against Lebanon during the AFC Cup qualifying rounds.
• National Experience: He was previously part of Lopetegui’s squad during crucial World Cup qualifying matches last year, though he remained on the bench.

Qatar’s Path to the World Cup

Qatar enters the tournament as back-to-back Asian Cup champions (2019, 2024), retaining a core of veteran stars alongside young prospects like Tahsin.

• Group Stage Schedule: Qatar will face Switzerland (June 13 – San Francisco), Canada (June 18 – Vancouver), and Bosnia and Herzegovina (June 24 – Seattle).
• Warm-up Matches: The team begins training on May 15 and will play friendlies against the Republic of Ireland (May 28) and El Salvador (June 6).
• Final Selection: Coach Lopetegui will announce the final 23 to 26-member squad before June 2.

Squad Veterans and New Talent

The preliminary list includes legendary 42-year-old striker Sebastian Soria, who has 39 goals in 124 appearances for the nation. He is joined by captain Hassan Al-Haydos, Akram Afif, and Almoez Ali. The team also features Mohammed Muntari, the lone goal-scorer for Qatar in the 2022 World Cup, and star goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham.

If Tahsin makes the final cut, he will become the first Malayali ever to be part of a FIFA World Cup squad. For more exclusive updates on Tahsin’s World Cup journey and the latest from the South Indian sports scene, stay tuned to Simply Mollywood!