Egyptian former national team goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary has disclosed the most memorable penalty save of his illustrious career, spanning both club and international football.
Speaking to Saudi channel Ssc, El-Hadary stated, “Any championship or title I have won was by the grace of God first, and then your diligence and dedication.”
He continued, “The best penalty save of my career, at the end of my journey, was in the World Cup against the Saudi national team.”
Reflecting on his achievements, El-Hadary emphasized, “I consider anything in my career, whether individual awards like being Africa’s best goalkeeper or winning 38 titles, as contributions I made to my country.”
El-Hadary’s remarkable penalty save came during the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, thwarting Fahad Al-Muwallad’s attempt during the group stage clash between Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Throughout his career, El-Hadary amassed an impressive collection of 38 titles, with his peak years notably spent at Al Ahly before departing the club and moving to Switzerland.
Additionally, he secured six personal accolades unprecedented for a goalkeeper.
His accomplishments include winning the Egyptian Premier League eight times, the Egypt Cup four times, the local Super Cup four times, the CAF Champions League three times, the CAF Super Cup three times, and clinching the bronze medal at the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan.
He also lifted the Swiss Cup with FC Sion in 2009.
