The Exciting Prospect of Former ISL Players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, football fans in North East India and beyond are eagerly anticipating the tournament, set to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The expanded 48-team tournament presents an opportunity for players from lesser-known clubs to shine on the world stage. This article takes a closer look at two former Indian Super League (ISL) players who could potentially feature in the upcoming World Cup.
Duckens Nazon: A Haitian Forward with Kerala Blasters Roots
Duckens Nazon, a Haitian forward who represented Kerala Blasters in the 2016 ISL season, is one such player. Nazon, who was just 22 at the time, had previously played for French clubs Lorient II and Olympique Saint-Quentin before his move to India. Despite a challenging start with Kerala Blasters, Nazon managed to score a crucial goal in a 2-1 win over FC Pune City, helping his side qualify for the ISL playoffs.
In the playoffs, Nazon showcased his talent, scoring a goal in the second leg of the playoffs against Delhi Dynamos and helping his team reach the ISL final. Although he failed to score in the final against Atletico de Kolkata, Nazon left a lasting impression on ISL fans. After his stint in India, Nazon moved to England, spending a short period with the reserves of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Since then, Nazon has been a journeyman, playing for 13 different clubs in his career, but he has found a home with Esteghlal in the Iranian top division. More importantly, Nazon has been a standout performer for the Haitian national team since 2014, scoring 44 goals in 78 appearances. His impressive form earned him a spot in Haiti's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, making him a representative of the Indian Super League on the global stage.
Ivan Kalyuzhny: The Ukrainian Midfielder with Kerala Blasters Pedigree
Ivan Kalyuzhny, a Ukrainian international who played for Kerala Blasters FC during the 2016 ISL season, is another former ISL player with a chance to make a mark at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kalyuzhny quickly won over fans in Kochi with his tireless work rate, sharp passing, and ability to arrive late in the box. He ended his stint in India with 4 goals in 18 appearances.
Since returning to Ukraine, Kalyuzhny has been a regular in his club's lineup, earning a senior call-up for Ukraine in October 2024. Ukraine finished second in their qualifying group, just behind France, and will now face Sweden, Poland, and Albania in the next round in their quest to secure a place in the FIFA WC 2026.
Implications for North East India and the Broader Indian Context
The potential participation of former ISL players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is significant for North East India and the broader Indian context. It underscores the growing importance of the Indian Super League as a platform for nurturing and showcasing talent. As more Indian players and coaches gain international exposure, it can only enhance the quality of football in the region and inspire a new generation of footballers.
Looking Ahead: The Promise of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be an exciting tournament, with the expanded format providing opportunities for lesser-known players and teams to shine. As we eagerly await the action, the stories of players like Duckens Nazon and Ivan Kalyuzhny serve as a reminder of the transformative power of football and the potential it holds for individuals and nations alike.