RECORD BREAKING: El Hadary becomes Africa Cup of Nations’ oldest player
Egypt goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary became the oldest player at an Africa Cup of Nations tournament as he kept a clean sheet in their draw against Mali.
El-Hadary turned 44 on Sunday and came on in the first half after an injury to Ahmed El-Shenawy, who collided with the post following Moussa Marega’s cross.
Legendary Egyptian goalkeeper El-Hadary was on the bench for the game, but got the call for his 148th cap after El-Shenawy’s unfortunate injury.
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— Arqam (@ArqamFC) January 17, 2017
He is widely regarded as one of Africa’s best-ever goalkeepers, winning the domestic league title eight times, as well as the domestic cup and African Champions League on four occasions each.
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— Arqam (@ArqamFC) January 17, 2017
Playing in his seventh tournament, having picked up a winners’ medal in 2006, 2008 and 2010, El-Hadary was not fully tested, but was confidently off his line to punch the ball clear and showed good speed by sprinting out to thwart Mali forward Marega.
