Despite World Cup hopes: Why Pherai is currently with HSV! | OneFootball

The football underdog Suriname currently has a great chance for direct World Cup qualification. However, an HSV star is not involved.

Immanuel Pherai is likely experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions right now. While Suriname's national team is fighting for a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup this week, the HSV professional is watching the crucial qualification matches from afar. A scenario he had imagined differently for himself.

In recent months, Pherai had prioritized his comeback. Repeatedly, physical issues set him back, causing him to forgo international trips in both September and October. “I had to take care of myself and get back into the flow,” he explained to Mopo. But just as he was slowly but surely getting back into the HSV team, a yellow-red card in Cologne stopped him.

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Pherai gains important confidence in HSV test

Meanwhile, the 24-year-old is fit again, but this time Suriname's national coach Stanley Menzo decided not to nominate him. A bitter message – especially since Pherai is convinced he can help his country.

Instead of playing in Central America, he gained important minutes with HSV in the test against FC Groningen (6:3), impressed with a goal and two assists, and found further rhythm. That is now crucial, he emphasizes. After a long injury break, every step of exertion must be right. “Not that anything happens,” says Pherai, also considering a long international trip.

His focus is now clearly forward: First, he wants to fully engage with HSV, then also for Suriname. “Next time, I'll be there again,” he says confidently. Whether a playoff battle awaits or he will play for a secure World Cup participant will be decided by his teammates these days.

The first step was already taken on Thursday when the 650,000-inhabitant country triumphed 4-0 over El Salvador. Against Guatemala (November 19), the qualification can then finally be secured.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.