“It was a special experience (to win on the opening day) for us in this tournament,” said Haqawi.

“We went through a long journey of preparation for this moment, those preparations lasted for more than two and a half years, and we are reaping the fruits of the continuous and diligent work."

Haqawi’s game revolves around lightning speed, technical ability and an eye for goal. 

He knows when to deliver - his equaliser against DPR Korea in their final Group C game spurred a comeback to earn Saudi Arabia a 2-1 win to seal their place in the quarter-finals.

“I play as a striker and I have the qualities that any striker should have, such as speed, technical skill and choosing the right moment to make a decision, especially inside the penalty area. I strive a lot to develop and learn.

“I grew up in a sports family as my brothers played football in many local clubs, and I started at the junior stage at Al Nassr Club and progressed with all age groups until reaching the first team.”

One of the most defining moments of Haqawi’s career so far has been the chance to train and play alongside Ronaldo at Al Nassr. 

The teenager made his impact in a Saudi Pro League game against Al Khaleej when he opted to square the ball to the Portuguese legend to tap home his 919th career goal.

“The feeling is indescribable when playing alongside a global legend like Cristiano Ronaldo. He is my role model - without a doubt - and I have learned a lot from him, whether in training or in matches, and that has formed many aspects of my career.”

With Ronaldo’s influence riving him, he is determined to give his best on the world stage.

“We succeeded in reaching the FIFA U20 World Cup, and this is what we aspired for from the first moment in the preparation stage, as the teamwork of the national team system got the results, and we were able to crown all the efforts made by my fellow players and the technical and administrative staff in the national team.”

As Haqawi continues to rise through the ranks, he is laser-focused on continuing to learn and making his mark.

“Our goal is not only to participate in any tournament we are in, but we seek to compete a lot for titles, whether in the AFC U20 Asian Cup, or even by being present at the FIFA U20 World Cup (Chile 2025).”

Saudi Arabia meet Korea Republic in the semi-finals on Wednesday and Haqawi will get another chance to test himself against one of the continent’s best teams.