Abu Jabal: a goalkeeper’s tale of destiny and dreams in AFCON 2023
The whims of fate seem to favor Egypt’s goalkeeper, Mohamed Abu Jabal, in each African Cup of Nations tournament, creating a narrative that could see him step into the shoes of Mohamed El-Shennawy in the current edition.
As he approaches the upcoming stage, Abu Jabal reflects on the glorious memories that have marked his football journey, with dreams generously endorsing his performance in AFCON 2023, hoping to contribute to Egypt’s quest for the championship.
Abu Jabal’s journey in the previous edition of the AFCON, where Egypt secured second place, started unexpectedly from the Round of 16.
This occurred after El-Shennawy’s injury, and Abu Jabal played a pivotal role in the team’s qualification, securing victory through penalty shootouts against Ivory Coast.
A similar scenario unfolded in the last edition when Mohamed El-Shennawy was injured.
Abu Jabal stepped in from the Round of 16, exhibiting remarkable performances throughout the tournament held in Cameroon.
In the 2021 AFCON edition in Cameroon, Abu Jabal, leading the Egyptian national team, guided them to the final, showcasing exceptional skills.
He proved to be an impenetrable barrier against Ivory Coast, Morocco, the tournament hosts, and Senegal.
In the Round of 16 against Ivory Coast in the previous edition, Abu Jabal came in as a substitute for Mohamed El-Shennawy in the second half.
His standout moment was saving a penalty in the subsequent shootout.
Facing Morocco in the quarterfinals, Abu Jabal, though substituted in extra time, proved to be a formidable force against the Atlas Lions’ attacks.
In the semifinal against Cameroon, he saved two penalty kicks during the match, securing Egypt’s spot in the final against Senegal.
In the final, despite his efforts, Egypt fell short in the penalty shootout against Senegal.
Throughout the tournament, Abu Jabal conceded only one goal, a penalty by Sofiane Boufal of Morocco in the quarterfinals.
He was awarded the Best Player in the final match against Senegal.
In essence, Abu Jabal’s net witnessed only one goal in the four matches he played, and his outstanding performances earned him the accolade of the Best Player in the final.
As Egypt progresses in AFCON 2023, the goalkeeper aims to repeat and even surpass the achievements of the past, adding another chapter to his illustrious football career.
