Bringing pride to Mumbai’s minority neighbourhoods, Hazil is among 50 chosen from 207 players across India after FIFA expert Richard Allen’s evaluation
MUMBAI — In a moment of great joy and pride for the people of Kurla West area in Maharashtra’s capital city, 13-year-old Hazil Irfan Ansari has been shortlisted for the final trials of the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Under-14 national team. The teenager received the official intimation on July 15 and has been called to Hyderabad for a three-day trial period, which began on Friday.
Hazil, a resident of LIG Colony in Kurla West, is among the 50 young footballers selected for the next round out of an initial list of 207 players shortlisted by FIFA expert Richard Allen. Allen observed thousands of children playing across India—from school-level matches to national championships—before drawing up the first list.
Hazil’s name among the top 50 players is a big achievement not only for his family but also for Mumbai’s grassroots football scene, especially for aspiring athletes from minority communities.
Football experts in Hyderabad will now conduct a three-day selection trial from August 1 to 3.
Those who prove themselves in the Hyderabad exercise will be trained further and may secure a place in the national U-14 football team.
Hazil’s father, Irfan Ansari, could barely hide his emotions while speaking to Clarion India. “Hazil has been working very hard for the past few years. He wakes up at 6:30 in the morning and goes to Fatima High School in Vidya Vihar. He returns by 2:30, then attends Quran class for an hour. After a short rest, he goes for tuition—unless he has football practice.”
He added, “On practice days, he takes a train to CSMT and then a bus to Cooperage Ground. Practice finishes around 9:30 or sometimes even 10:30 pm. After that, he comes home and goes straight to bed. This has been his routine for years.”
Hazil currently plays for Mumbai City FC. His current coach, Satij, praised the youngster’s discipline and talent. “Hazil has shown excellent commitment and football sense. He’s a quiet boy, but very focused on the field. His selection is well-deserved.”
His former coach, Sarfaraz Ansari of Eleven Star Club in Madanpura, also expressed happiness. “Hazil was always serious about the game. He came regularly to practice and listened carefully. I always felt he had the potential to go far. Today, he has proved that hard work and faith can open doors.”
Locals in Kurla West say Hazil’s selection has inspired many boys in the area who dream of playing for India. In a neighbourhood often ignored in mainstream media, Hazil’s rise offers a refreshing and hopeful story.
His teachers at Fatima High School have also expressed their support. One of them, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Hazil is a respectful student and manages both his studies and sports very well. We are proud to have him in our school.”
Hazil’s selection shows that despite limited resources and long daily commutes, dedicated children from ordinary families can compete at the highest level with the right support and encouragement.
If Hazil succeeds in the trials in Hyderabad, he will move one step closer to representing India at the international level. For now, his neighbourhood, school, and family wait with prayers and pride.
