Emotional rollercoaster for Swede Ayari after wonder goals against father's Tunisia
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Swedish midfielder Yasin Ayari scored two spectacular goals against Tunisia, his father's homeland, in a 5-1 World Cup victory.
- Ayari expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging his deep connection to Tunisia while prioritizing his commitment to Sweden.
- His father had encouraged him to play for Sweden, emphasizing his son's upbringing and opportunities in the country.
Sweden's Yasin Ayari experienced a profound emotional journey during his team's dominant 5-1 World Cup victory over Tunisia. The midfielder netted two stunning goals against the nation where his father was born, creating a unique and deeply personal moment on the global stage.
It was very emotional to play against Tunisia, which I have so many feelings for - as everyone knows, my father is from there, I've spent many summers there, I have a lot of family there, but now I'm playing for Sweden and I have to do my best for Sweden.
Ayari described the match as "very emotional," highlighting his strong ties to Tunisia, where he has spent many summers and has extensive family. However, he affirmed his dedication to representing Sweden, stating, "I have to do my best for Sweden." His father, Azzouz, had previously expressed his desire for Yasin to play for Sweden, the country that "really took care of him," underscoring the family's integration into Swedish society.
As everyone knows, I have roots there. It was a special match for me. I have a lot of feelings for Tunisia, but I am happy that we won.
The midfielder's first goal was a powerful strike in the seventh minute, met with a muted celebration. However, after scoring his second, equally impressive goal in stoppage time, Ayari allowed himself to "let loose a little," acknowledging the rarity of scoring twice in a World Cup match. This performance contrasted with a potential alternate reality where he might have chosen to represent Tunisia four years prior.
That was the nail in the coffin, then I could let loose a little. It is not every day that you score two goals in a World Cup.
The Ayari family has strong roots in Swedish football, with Yasin and his brother Taha beginning their careers at AIK. Their mother, Amina, is also involved in the sport. With this decisive win, Sweden now leads their group, and Ayari is focused on the upcoming match against the Netherlands, emphasizing the team's concentration on their own performance.
My children were born in Sweden. I want him to play for Sweden, he should feel like he is giving back to the country that really took care of him.
Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.