Australian forward Nishan Velupillay has made history as the first player of Malaysian descent to feature in a FIFA World Cup match.
The 25-year-old, born in Melbourne, came on as a 61st-minute substitute during Australia’s 2-0 Group D win over Türkiye at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver. He replaced goalscorer Nestory Irankunda in the second half.
1st player of M’sian descent at a FIFA World Cup
Nishan Velupillay, who plays for Melbourne Victory, has a Malaysian connection through his father, Sasinath Velupillay, who is of Malaysian-Sri Lankan Tamil heritage, while his mother is of Anglo-Indian descent.
He rose through the ranks at Melbourne Victory and finished as the club’s top scorer in the 2024–25 season. His international debut for Australia came in October 2024 during a World Cup qualifier against China, where he scored just seven minutes after coming off the bench.
Since then, he has earned several appearances under coach Tony Popovic, scoring three goals in his first seven matches during Australia’s successful qualification campaign.
Player profile and international decision
Known as a pacey winger with strong attacking movement, Velupillay is regarded for his ability to stretch defensive lines and contribute effectively in the final third. He has also been praised for his consistency and development within Australia’s football pathway system, particularly in terms of decision-making and overall attacking maturity.
It was also reported that the Football Association of Malaysia had previously approached Velupillay, but he ultimately chose to represent Australia at international level.
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