Assam: Rehan Ahmed from Sivasagar, Assam, has secured his place in India’s 23-member squad for the SAFF Under-17 Championship in Colombo. At only 15, his journey from a viral bicycle kick at a school tournament to the national jersey shows how persistence and training shape a career in football.
Rehan first drew attention in 2023 when a video of his left-footed bicycle kick at the Pilik Chowdhury Inter-School Football Tournament went viral. Two years later, that moment has transformed into an international opportunity. “So happy and glad that we get to represent India at the international level,” Rehan said over phone from Colombo. “There are so many boys who play football. We are part of the 23 players who have been selected. That means something. I’m determined to give my best for my country.”
A native of Amguri in Sivasagar, Rehan has been training at the AIFF-FIFA Talent Academy in Bhubaneswar since 2024. His father, Sirajuddin Ahmed, enrolled him at a local coaching centre and encouraged his early training. The academy polished his skills further and gave him confidence to perform at the highest stage.
A die-hard fan of Cristiano Ronaldo, Rehan has carried the same discipline and determination into his own game. His selection has brought immense joy to his family and pride to Assam. As India begin their campaign against Maldives, Rehan carries with him the responsibility of fulfilling both his personal dream and the expectations of his supporters back home.
