World Cup 2010

Hadary And Homos: Egypt's Heroes Against Italy

Goal.com takes a look at a pair of genuine Egyptian heroes in the wake of their historic victory over Italy in the Confederation Cup...

Jun 18, 2009 10:24:31 PM

Teams

Players

Mohamed Soliman 'Homos'
Defender, Age 30

Born on the New Year's Day 1979, Mohamed Homos is quickly gaining a reputation for scoring crucial goals. He doesn't net many, but he does when they matter.

Showing continuity and living up to his name, it was Homos who popped up after 39 minutes to nod home from an Egypt corner, giving the Phaoroes a 1-0 lead against a disjoined-looking Italian side.

Goal.com Arabic expert Mohammed Awaad tells us, "The 30-year-old opts for a defensive style in the midfield area, which has led to him becoming a recent favourite amongst his club team's support.

"An integral part of the Egypt squad, be sure to keep an eye on the talismanic figure of Mohamed Homos as they continue to impress in the Confederation Cup."

Essam El-Hadary
Goalkeeper, Age 36

The oldest played in the Confederation Cup at the ripe age of 36, Essam Kamal Tawfik El-Hadary has been the subject of much controversy in the past regarding his somewhat botched move from Al-Ahly to Swiss side FC Sion.

Losing the support of many Al-Ahly fans in the process of the switch, El-Hadary has been handed a four-month domestic ban by FIFA for his troubles. However, tonight's match saw the 'keeper produce a performance that he will hope absolve him of his indescretions.

As Guiseppe Rossi took matters into his own hands with a powerful drive from distance, El-Hadary was at full stretch in his successful attempt to parry the ball to safety. A clean sheet tonight will mean a lot to the Egyptian stopper.

A favourite of Goal.com's own Arab world expert, Mohammed Awaad, had this to say:

"A hugely talented goalkeeper entering the twilight years of his game, a turnaround of public opinion would be an apt ending to the career of a goalie who has performed so well against the likes of Samuel Eto'o and Didier Drogba in African cups gone past."

Stephen Crawford, Goal.com

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