@vsrsus: South Asian heritage was more prevalent than ever at this World Cup. The diaspora showed up and showed out at football's biggest party, proving the tide is turning for players with roots in the region. They have well and truly captured the magic this tournament is known for. Whether it's Zidane Iqbal, born in Manchester to a Pakistani father and Iraqi mother before choosing to represent Iraq. Or DR Congo's Samuel Moutoussamy, whose paternal ancestry traces back to Tamil indentured workers taken from South India to Guadeloupe by French colonial authorities. They — alongside Tahsin Jamshid, Sarpreet Singh, Nishan Velupillay and Nadiem Amiri — are turning what many once thought was a niche at this level into the norm. Vikash Dhorasoo and Aron Winter walked so these players could run and inspire the next generation. The pride South Asian fans around the world have felt watching them began long before they were eliminated and will live on long after the final whistle. With every appearance making the next one feel a little less extraordinary, that's progress. And that's how distant dreams become possible. #2026worldcup

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Friday 17 July 2026 14:47:17 GMT