New Delhi, Jan. 26 -- About five years ago, the Fanai household was split down the middle. The parents wanted their youngest child, Lalremtluanga Fanai, then aged 15 years, to chase an education and get a government job. On the other hand their boy harboured secret ambitions of playing professional football, egged on by his elder brother. 

Fanai kicked his first ball while growing up in the Bawngkawn neighbourhood of Aizawl, idolising the current India international, Lallianzuala Chhangte, whom he had seen on television. His father worked at the local market; his mother sold vegetables. Through football, Fanai wanted to change his family's life.

Last season, Fanai, 20, made his senior debut for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super Lea...