Roman Lozada plans to take clothes his late mother bought for a trip to Qatar when he joins Venezuela's U17 World Cup journey. In an interview with FIFA, the midfielder explained how family support and a move to Argentina shaped his development and his wish to represent his country.
A new life built around football
Lozada's earliest memories centre on his mother and grandfather taking him, his brother and a cousin to training in Caracas. He started at Caracas FC aged four, with his younger brother Leonardo also playing there.
In 2018, the family made a 16-day road journey from Venezuela to Argentina. Lozada recalled not wanting to leave, but now sees his parents' decision as an effort to give their children greater opportunities. Football helped the brothers settle into their new surroundings.
A youth coach named Horacio arranged Velez Sarsfield trials in 2018 ahead of the following season. Lozada said four players were selected from his age group of 50, while three were chosen from Leonardo's. He has since signed a professional contract and gained reserve-team experience.
Responsibility on and off the pitch
Lozada identifies awareness of space, vision and regaining possession as strengths, while recognising that his communication can improve. He said Venezuela's coaches want his experience to bring composure to the group.
His mother Romina had hoped to watch him at the World Cup and bought clothes for the trip before her death. He kept them and intends to carry them to Qatar.
The next step is to translate that preparation into a contribution for Venezuela. Lozada described a united squad determined to go far; its progress and his playing role will be established in the competition itself.