In a stunning football upset, Sri Lanka defeated Yemen 1-0 during the November international break, a victory sealed by Brisbane Roar’s Jack Hingert. Making headlines in the world of soccer, Hingert’s decisive 89th-minute goal marked his first for Sri Lanka, underlining his key role in the emerging team. This victory took place in a largely empty Al Khor stadium in Qatar but represented a significant moment for the Sri Lankan national team, often overshadowed historically in the sport.
Jack Hingert, a seasoned player with 14 years at Brisbane Roar, has become a symbol of Sri Lanka’s football revival. His summoning to the national team began in 2020 when the then-manager Amir Alagic identified Hingert’s Sri Lankan heritage, rooted in his father’s Burgher ancestry. This led to Hingert’s embrace of his heritage and contribution to a squad eager for recognition and success.
The development of Sri Lanka’s team has been a strategic move by the Football Federation Sri Lanka (FFSL) to identify talent within the diaspora. This includes players like Oliver Kelaart from Australia and Claudio Kammerknecht from Germany, adding depth to a team striving to qualify for major tournaments like the 2027 Asian Cup.
Hingert’s journey is not just about sport; it’s a poignant reconnection with his roots and family legacy. The footballer reflects on the emotional significance when he first donned the Sri Lankan jersey, a moment witnessed by his family in Colombo and felt deeply, recalling his ancestors’ pride.
Despite political and organizational challenges, including a temporary FIFA suspension in 2023, the inclusion of diaspora players has already begun transforming Sri Lankan football. These efforts, bolstered by Hingert and his teammates, reflect a hopeful future for the team, aiming to cement their place on the Asian football stage.
