The victory was bittersweet for Musab, who was injured on the pitch just five minutes into the match against Special Olympics Bharat (India) after sustaining an injury earlier this morning at Stade Ouest de la Cité Universitaire (West).
From the sidelines, the midfielder continued to support his teammates, watching proudly as Libya continued their streak with another convincing victory.
"I feel very good about how we've been playing together as a team. We've given it our best, and I'm hoping for another triumph in the final stages," Musab said as he rested after the match, awaiting news on whether he would be fit to rejoin his teammates in the knockout rounds.
The Road to Paris
Musab started playing football from age six, first enjoying the game with friends at school and in local fields before joining his school’s football team. Encouraged by his father, he continued developing his athletic skills and later competed in local Ramadan tournaments, celebrating quite a few victories with his team.
"I joined Special Olympics through a sports club focused on inclusion, and since then my coach invited me to represent Libya at the Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026. Football has always helped me to organise my life, giving it direction and a routine. I wake up early, go to bed early—I've become more responsible for my own life. It's really good for my health and mental well-being; I feel strong and fit."
A Team Built on Commitment
Although still gearing up for his first goal of the tournament, Musab has played a crucial role in Libya's success from midfield, creating assists for teammates and maintaining their attacking rhythm.
"What makes us such a strong team is our commitment and the way we follow our coach's instructions. From the beginning of this Unified Football World Cup, we've left our all on the pitch in each game, and the results match. So even though we're all from different towns and cities across Libya, we've become really close. We spend a lot of time together outside of football—we go out, chat, visit cafés and get to know one another more. That friendship has made us a stronger team because we have trust and enjoy playing together."
Eyes on the Final
Musab's football journey has been heavily shaped by the support of his parents, who encouraged him to continue following his passion, with his uncles also playing football recreationally.
"I really look up to Libyan player Hamdou El Houni, and internationally I admire Virgil van Dijk from the Netherlands. I would love to continue developing as a player, keep improving my game, and one day, I want to play for a famous football club."
Asked how he remains confident right before every game, Musab focuses on the basics.
"I make sure I'm hydrated, stay calm—simply focus on the match. I stay positive no matter the setback, and I keep going. To any young athletes who want to play football, I'd say stay committed. If you work hard and stay dedicated, opportunities will come, and you'll achieve good results.”
Libya now turns its attention to Friday’s knockout matches after an unbeaten group stage. It remains uncertain whether Musab will recover in time to return to the pitch, but his teammates will be hoping to have his level-headed composure and midfield strength back as they continue their pursuit of gold. The Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 continues through to the Closing Ceremony on 11 July. Catch every match live on the Veo Live App.
