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Kota Kinabalu: Local boy Ahmad Qayyim Dayyan Ahmad Syukri was given the rare opportunity that millions of kids in the world can only dream of when he was chosen as one of the child mascots for the Croatian World Cup team on Sunday.

The 10-year-old who hails from Likas was seen accompanying midfielder Marcelo Brozovic onto the pitch in their Group F match against Canada at the Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan. He is the youngest son of engineer Ahmad Syukri Mustakim who is currently based in Qatar working as a project manager.

His story came to light after his mother Suzriana Wahimin posted in her social media account hours after his appearance and expressed her excitement and thanked God for the once in a lifetime opportunity.

Meanwhile, Dayyan’s grandfather, Wahimin Jati who lives in Kampung Likas when contacted on Monday was happy and proud of his grandson.

“This boy is really interested in football, I hope exposure like this will motivate him and help to develop his talent further,” he said.

He added that Dayyan is currently studying at the Middle East International School in Qatar and is also attending a football programme there.