Haiti’s top goal scorer, Duckens Nazon, found himself in a precarious situation as he prepared to depart from Tehran airport for Paris. Just as his flight was about to take off, his friend in Israel alerted him to the sound of war alarms going off in the country. Moments later, they were instructed to deplane due to the commencement of hostilities, forcing Nazon into survival mode.
Nazon, a player for Esteghlal FC in Tehran, was en route to Paris to secure a visa for the upcoming World Cup, marking Haiti’s return to the tournament after a 52-year absence. Instead, he embarked on a harrowing journey by road through a war-torn country, eventually making his way out through Azerbaijan.
The immediate danger was palpable, but Nazon’s adrenaline helped him navigate the challenging situation. His primary concern was ensuring the safety of his wife and four children, who had returned to Morocco due to difficulties settling in Tehran. Despite the chaos, he acknowledged the advantage of acting swiftly and decisively without the burden of family responsibilities.
After disembarking the plane, Nazon encountered his teammate Munir El Haddadi, and together they navigated the tumultuous circumstances, opting to leave the country at the earliest opportunity. Amid blocked highways and ongoing bombings near Tehran, they made their way towards Azerbaijan, witnessing explosions and facing numerous obstacles along the route.
Despite communication disruptions, Nazon managed to contact his family, arrange a flight from Azerbaijan, and secure assistance from the French Embassy and his representatives, ultimately facilitating his escape. Following a grueling 20-hour journey, he finally reached safety in Paris, reflecting on the devastating impact of conflict and advocating for peace.
While Nazon’s future with Esteghlal remains uncertain, he expressed his willingness to return to football once the situation stabilizes. His immediate focus lies on the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where Haiti’s qualification represents a historic achievement after enduring challenges such as playing all matches away due to gang violence.
Drawn into a tough group with Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland, Nazon remains undaunted, emphasizing Haiti’s humility and pride in representing their nation on the global stage. Rooted in his upbringing in a Paris suburb and his Haitian heritage, Nazon aspires to make his mark in the World Cup, aiming to score a goal regardless of the opponent.
As he anticipates the opportunity to inspire his compatriots amid ongoing hardships, Nazon’s ambition and dedication to his country’s footballing success resonate deeply, embodying a sense of pride and determination that transcends mere sporting achievement.