Welcomed into a sense of belonging, the land that opens its arms after escaping war offers football as a release valve and a sanctuary. A ball, cleats, and gloves symbolize a path to safety where a young player finds both escape and identity. Zecira Musovic, born in Falun, Sweden in 1996, has from early on been drawn to the game. The grassy fields and practice sessions became spaces where a child could simply be himself, free from prying eyes. Though Swedish by nationality, his family’s journey began in the Balkans, fleeing war that touched Prijepolje, a small Serbian town where about 11,000 people lived before the turmoil. Like many asylum seekers, his relatives sought a fresh start in Sweden, and there Musovic grew up with a ball at his feet. He dreamed of scoring goals, then swapped the field for the goalposts, donning gloves and defending the net. Today, he still can hardly believe it, but he has become a emblem of Sweden, helping his country reach the World Cup semifinals on home soil, a moment that seemed almost magical to the nation hosting the tournament. source: Swedish Football Federation.
“They’re my biggest role models for their courage,” the Swedish team’s goalkeeper shared, reflecting on his family’s bravery. The Balkan war forced them to leave everything behind and seek security in Sweden, shaping a life that blends two distinct cultures. It has not always been simple. There have been clashes of culture, moments when he faced prejudice, and times when people urged him not to play football. Yet the Swedish community and its support have consistently backed his dream, encouraging him to aim high and pursue it to the utmost. source: Swedish Football Federation.
The Chelsea reserve keeper did not initially know what his role in the World Cup would be. Then a call from Peter Gerhardsson, the head coach of the Swedish national team, arrived. His rise over the past years had been swift, but the global spotlight only intensified with the World Cup. He has guarded the team since the tournament began, and after a standout performance in the Round of 16 against the United States, he emerged as a central figure for Sweden. His presence has been a cornerstone of Sweden’s defense, a record-breaking display that included multiple saves across challenging moments, underscoring his reliability and determination. source: Swedish Football Federation.
After achieving milestone after milestone, the first person he called was his mother. The conversation carried both relief and pride, a moment of recognition for what had been accomplished. The day he and his teammates faced Spain, the dream of advancing to the final felt within reach, a call to celebrate with the family as the journey continued. source: Swedish Football Federation.
Musovic’s love for the ball runs deep. From a young age, the sport has been a constant companion, offering more than just competition. It has shaped his sense of community and responsibility. In his early career, he launched Next Generation Dreamers, a project designed to inspire future generations of girls to pursue their dreams regardless of background or appearance. The aim is to support young women who strive to become everything they can be, despite obstacles and the prevailing rules that often try to narrow their path. The project seeks to empower girls to envision themselves in roles they may have once believed out of reach, turning aspiration into action and opportunity into reality. source: Swedish Football Federation.