Midfielder Kahlil Mathura has one main goal to achieve during the FIFA Under-17 World Championship.The St Mary's College player is hoping to make use of the opportunity of a World Cup appearance to obtain a scholarship from an American College.
Then he would be able to continue his studies and football career.
Mathura has been a regular off the bench for coach Rene Simoes' squad and is intent on getting a much playing time as possible.
He has been pinpointed as T&T's best spot kicker and opposing teams will be warned to take guard against him.
"Right now my main goal is to be part of the team for the entire tournament. We have great expectations as a team.
We know it's going to be difficult but we hope we can get the support of the fans because that is important to any team," said Mathura.
Being able to be part of the T&T Under-17 team is more of a dream come true for the 17-year-old.
"It is a dream come true and a great gift from God. It was my goal to represent my country in football at the World Cup level. I will also have the opportunity to gain exposure in order to receive a scholarship or professional contract," added Mathura, whose favourite player is Italian defender Paolo Maldini.
Mathura revealed that if he could meet two persons they would be Diego Maradona and Michael Jordan.
"Keep God in your life and keep faith in him and he will grant you what you want," said Mathura, who also described his father Steve as his role model.