He has emerged from the shadow of his famous father to become a star in his own right at the World Cup.
Timothy Weah’s superbly-taken goal for the USA in their 1-1 draw with Wales confirmed his status as one of the breakout talents of the tournament.
And the son of former AC Milan, Monaco, PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City striker George Weah, now President of Liberia and the only African to win the Ballon d’Or, is now ready to test England’s defenders.
His pace, clever movement and clinical finishing are reminiscent of his father in his pomp, the Lille striker having achieved something his celebrated father did not manage, by playing in a World Cup.
Despite being the top scorer in the Champions League in 1995, being named FIFA World Player of the Year the same year and winning the Ballon d’Or, he never graced a World Cup, although father and son did go to the 2010 tournament in South Africa, when the latter was just 10.
But George and wife Clar were at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium to see their 22-year-old son score against Wales, although they were in a FIFA suite, rather than with the parents of other US players, as is the custom for heads of state.
Following in the footsteps of his iconic father was never going to be easy, but US team-mate and captain Tyler Adams, who grew up with Weah in New York, praised his friend's humility and work ethic.
“I remember he was playing for Cosmos, I was playing for New York Red Bulls and I did a little bit of scouting and brought him over to our side,” said Adams.
“We played in the academy together for a year, before he went to PSG. He’s an amazing character, a very bubbly personality, he’s just himself and that’s amazing when you have people who aren’t afraid to be themselves.
“He knows there’s, not necessarily a target on his back, but wherever he goes with the name Weah, it carries a certain weight and he’s lived up to that expectation unbelievably.
He’s continuing to carve his own path for himself. What he’s done for our national team and what he adds to the team, he’s just a special character and we wouldn’t trade him for anything.
"He’s mature beyond his years and I think everyone would say they’re very proud of him and that he’s continuing to grow into an amazing player and person.”
US coach Gregg Berhalter added: “He’s one of a kind. He really helps with the mood in the team and really helps with the spirit of the team. He’s got a tremendous amount of confidence, but also brings guys together, so we’re lucky to have him in the group.
Weah has had an itinerant career, moving from New York Red Bulls academy, via PSG - where he won two league titles - and now Lille, where he has also won the French title.
Weah’s hero Pele took to Instagram to praise the young forward for his goal against Wales, saying: “Congratulations. It was a beautiful goal. Keep dreaming, dreams come true."
It would be a dream come true for Weah to score against England tonight and underline his status as one of the most exciting young players in Qatar. Gareth Southgate and his players underestimate him at their peril.
