Want to play for Indian football team, says Kiyan Nassiri

The 21-year-old has become the latest sensation after his hat-trick in the Kolkata Derby.

The Kolkata Derby in the Indian Super League era has had its fair share of criticism from the true Mohun Bagan fans, following the club's merger with ATK and the birth of ATK Mohun Bagan. But, last night’s derby gave rise to a breath of fresh air in Kolkata for the Mariners, with one of their own, Kiyan Nassiri scoring a breathtaking hat-trick. His historic treble, Nassiri is the first to score a Kolkata Derby hat-trick in the ISL, propelled ATKMB from a 0-1 defeat to a 3-1 victory.

Nassiri, still only 21, came on moments after ATK Mohun Bagan had conceded through Darren Sidoel's strike. The youngster equalized with his first touch on the ball and followed it with two fabulous strikes to complete his hat-trick. Son of East Bengal legend Jamshed Nassiri, Kiyan has announced himself in some style. He is also one of only five players to score a hat-trick in the Kolkata Derby.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkkaEHxMeps

From being a reserve team player to making the biggest stage his own, Kiyan Nassiri has come a long way. Following his side’s 3-1 win against their arch-rivals SC East Bengal, the forward shared his thoughts. He also spoke of his desire to represent the Indian national team.

Feelings post the hat-trick

Kiyan Nassiri is only the third player since independence to score a hat-trick in the Kolkata Derby. Edeh Chidi (2009) and Bhaichung Bhutia (1997) are the two others. The 21-year-old shared his feelings and was delighted after achieving something his father didn't.

“Of course, I am very happy. I have put my name up there with two Indian football icons and I am very happy,” he expressed with a bright smile on his face.

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Next Target

Kiyan’s father Jamshed Nassiri has mentioned that he wants his son to represent the Indian football team next. Kiyan shared his thoughts on the same. He said, “Yes, obviously everyone wants to play for the Indian national team. But, in order to do that, I need to get more game-time, go step-by-step and do better things in training. If I improve myself, I’ll get my chances.”

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Who do you want to dedicate this hat-trick?

Kiyan’s treble is the headline throughout the Indian football circuit and has given ATK Mohun Bagan fans a reason to celebrate. He dedicated his hat-trick to his teammates for always having his back.

“Of course to the team. 100% because without them it’s not possible. They have always had my back since the beginning,” he asserted.

Feedback from family

Kiyan has big shoes to fill and yesterday's performance was just a step forward. He said he hasn’t spoken to his father just yet, but he knows that his father is proud of him. “Surprisingly, I haven’t spoken to him, but I’ve spoken to everyone else at home. The feedback I have got from them is that he’s happy and quite proud,” said young Kiyan with pride in his eyes.

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