Alizera cemented his spot in the history books by becoming the first goalkeeper to save a Portuguese player’s penalty in the world cup after saving none other than Cristiano Ronaldo’s spot kick in the 53rd minute.
Life has never been rosy for the 25 year old goalkeeper and his presence in the world cup has been nothing short of awe inspiring. Born in the small village of Sarab-e Yas in Lorestan, Alizera ran away from home and moved to Tehran at a very tender age in order to fulfill his dream of becoming a footballer. As a result of that, he grew up homeless, slept at his local team’s football stadium and was reduced to being given change by passers-by who wrongly assumed that he was a beggar.
According to the Guardian, he proceeded to work in a dress factory, a car wash and as a street cleaner before realizing his footballing dream.
“I slept by the club’s door and when I got up in the morning, I noticed the coins that people had dropped for me. They thought I was a beggar. Well, I had a delicious breakfast for the first time in a long while” said Alizera as he looked back at the obstacles he had to navigate his way through in order to realize his dream.
After a great amount of hard work and dedication, Alizera would become a professional footballer and realise his dream of playing at the world up.
Alizera’s life informs us to believe in ourselves and have it in mind that sacrifice and hardwork pays. What a journey it has been for Alizera. Never ever give up on your dreams, everything is achievable.
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