El Hadary crowns Morocco’s Bounou greatest goalkeeper in Arab football history

Former Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary has hailed Morocco star Yassine Bounou as the greatest goalkeeper in the history of Arab football following another outstanding display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Bounou played a pivotal role as Morocco swept aside Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16, producing another commanding performance and keeping a clean sheet to help the Atlas Lions reach the quarter-finals.

Speaking during an interview with Sky News Arabia, El Hadary expressed his admiration for the Moroccan international, praising both his consistency and ability to deliver in the biggest matches.

“I take my hat off to a truly great, world-class goalkeeper, and I bow in respect to him.”

El Hadary: Bounou is ’85 percent’ of Morocco’s strength

The former Egyptian international believes Bounou has become the cornerstone of Morocco’s success, insisting the goalkeeper’s influence extends far beyond his role between the posts.

“Bounou deserves to receive his full share of appreciation; he isn’t just half the team, he represents 85 percent of its strength. I always used to say that I was the greatest goalkeeper in the Arab world, but now I say: No, Yassine Bounou is the greatest.”

The comments represent one of the strongest endorsements yet from one of Africa’s most celebrated goalkeepers, with El Hadary setting aside his own legacy to recognise Bounou’s achievements.

Calls for Bounou to play at the highest level

El Hadary also believes the Moroccan goalkeeper has earned the opportunity to represent one of the world’s elite clubs.

“Bounou deserves to play for the best club in the world, and in the strongest league in the world.”

Bounou’s latest clean sheet came during Morocco’s convincing 3-0 victory over Canada in Houston, where the Atlas Lions produced an assured defensive display to book their place in the last eight.

France await Morocco in quarter-finals

Morocco’s reward is a blockbuster quarter-final meeting with France national football team in Boston on Thursday.

The Atlas Lions will be aiming to continue their remarkable World Cup campaign against the reigning champions as they look to move one step closer to another historic milestone for African football.