Saturday June 1, 2024
Werribee City’s Ismael Mohamed in action, showcasing his skills on the field. Recently called up for the Somali national team, Mohamed is set to represent Somalia in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. / Credit Werribee City FC
VICTORIA, Australia (HOL) - Werribee City's Ismael Mohamed has received his second call-up to the Somali national soccer team, making him a key player in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Mohamed, who plays for the semi-professional Werribee City Football Club in Melbourne's Victoria Premier League 1, is set to join the Somali team for two critical matches.
Earlier this year, Mohamed received his first national team call-up. Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Mohamed expressed his excitement and surprise. "It was unexpected the first time," he said. "I was overwhelmed and I was shocked. I didn't think they would call me up again, but I was happy they did. I was stunned. I'm a father of three, a normal person, quietly going about my business."
Despite living his entire life in Australia, Mohamed has a strong connection to Somalia through his father and visited the country in 2016. This connection, along with his impressive performance in Australia, caught the attention of Somali national team officials.
"There was another guy picked from Australia and he is doing really well and put Australia on the map," Mohamed said. "They've started to keep an eye on Australia. They wanted to strengthen the team with some more quality."
Playing on the international stage presents different challenges compared to playing in Australia. Mohamed mentioned difficulties such as jet lag, travel, and sickness. He started in two international games previously and noted international soccer's physical and fast-paced nature. "It was tough," he said. "It was a different game speed, and they are a lot stronger. We're playing against the best players from their countries. They were a lot more physical and quick. The coach started me in both games."
Mohamed sees the opportunity to help Somalia qualify for the World Cup for the first time as a significant milestone and hopes the entire country will support the team.
Back at Werribee City, Mohamed is enjoying his first season. He previously played for Banyule City and Williamstown and praised his current club's welcoming environment and effective management. "They have been very welcoming," he said. "They've been really good with the way they have run things. The way they treat me has been really good. We've had the new coaching staff come in, and it has been really good. It's been a good appointment as coach."
CAF qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026 resumes next month, with Matchdays 3 and 4 beginning on June 5. Group F, where Mohamed's Somali team competes, is currently led by Côte d'Ivoire, which aims to continue its perfect start. Somalia has yet to secure a win but remains hopeful of a turnaround in the upcoming matches.
In Group G, Algeria and Botswana lead the standings with six points each. Somalia, currently without a point, will face challenges against Mozambique and Botswana in their upcoming fixtures. The qualifiers promise intense competition and thrilling matches, with teams vying for a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026.