“I was very happy once I was told that I was chosen to participate in the AFC Asian Cup draw,” said Yazan in an interview with the-AFC.com. “To represent Saudi Arabia is the biggest honour for me so I’m obviously delighted.

“I’m sure Saudi Arabia will accomplish great things in this tournament. We have very good players like Saleh Abu Al Shamat and others, so God willing, the title will be in our name.”

The Jeddah-born was born with a growth-restriction on his left leg that sees him relying on crutches for movement but despite the difficulties, has persevered and just like any young child, looks to football for inspiration.

“My start with football was when I was just six years old. My family and brothers motivated me, and every year, my passion for football grew more and more.

“When I was young I was playing alone and if I went out, I was (only) playing with my brother. It was only from secondary school onwards that I started playing with others.

“I used to face a lot of struggles, as people used to ask me how can you play with us, we fear of hurting you. This made feel that I could never play with them

“I would go home and tell my mother, who urged me to keep trying. So I did and I went back out and played with them.”

Yazan has gone on to take his love for football to the next level, becoming a para footballer and even representing his beloved Saudi Arabia in international competitions.

A fan of back-to-back continental champions Al Ahli Saudi FC, Yazan was a volunteer with the Local Organising Committee for the recently concluded AFC Champions League Elite Finals Jeddah 2026™.

“I haven’t faced any hurdles in football because of my disability. On the contrary, my disability was a motivation for me to play football. Initially when I started, I couldn't do anything, I couldn't move the ball while I was walking,

“Then I really got into it and participated in competitions like the West Asia Championship and thankfully, it was a very good championship for me. Hopefully what is next will be better.” 

Calling Cristiano Ronaldo and Salem Al Dawsari his idols, Yazan is also hoping to one day be an inspiration to others.

“Honestly nothing can stop a human being, I believe that if we put our minds to what is in front of us, then I’m sure we can do it. It’s all in the mind.

“My message, especially for those with disabilities, I always say you just concentrate on what you want to do, and you will accomplish it in the best possible way.

“Everything can be done with persistence, if that person concentrates on the target. One day - hopefully - I will have my academy in Saudi Arabia and I can help others.”