Muhammad Zaki

News editor

His love for football was rooted in Chelsea, specifically when he was captivated by Gianfranco Zola—not only for his magic on the field but also because the legend's name sounded so pleasant to his ears. A few years later, the 2002 World Cup introduced him to Oliver Kahn, the goalkeeper who became Zaki's second love in football, even though Germany went home empty-handed at that time.

The most memorable moment for Zaki happened much closer to home: standing in the south stands of Maguwoharjo, witnessing PSS Sleman lift the 2013 First Division trophy. The euphoria of victory turned bitter as dualism prevented Si Elang Jawa from being promoted.

Zaki's areas of expertise at GOAL include:

  • Analysis of European football tactics, including the Premier League and Champions League
  • Coverage of player transfer news & club financial regulation dynamics
  • International football editorials: player biographies, legend stories, and hidden young talents
  • Player rating & performance assessment with both analytical and narrative approaches

Zaki's All-Time XI (4-2-3-1)

Oliver Kahn; Cafu, John Terry, Franz Beckenbauer, Paolo Maldini; Xavi Hernandez, Claude Makelele; Lionel Messi, Eric Cantona, Eden Hazard; Marco van Basten

Articles by Muhammad Zaki
  1. Queiroz rages at VAR 'coffee' break as England held

    Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz has launched a scathing attack on the officiating standards at the 2026 World Cup, suggesting that the VAR officials must have been on a coffee break during a controversial moment in their 0-0 draw with England. The veteran coach was left incensed after the Black Stars were denied what he deemed a "clear penalty and red card" during the stalemate in Foxborough.

  2. Munoz shines as Colombia sink DR Congo

    Colombia have officially booked their place in the 2026 World Cup last 32 after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Guadalajara - a feat Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal failed to manage in their opening match. Crystal Palace star Daniel Munoz proved to be the difference once again, breaking the deadlock with his second goal of the tournament to ensure the South Americans maintained their perfect start in Group K.

  3. Hackney warned over 'wrong club' choice amid Man Utd interest

    Middlesbrough standout Hayden Hackney has been warned that a move to a "big club" could stall his meteoric rise if he does not prioritise playing time over a lucrative contract. The 23-year-old is at the centre of an escalating transfer battle involving Manchester United, Everton, and Tottenham as he enters the final year of his deal at the Riverside.

  1. Yamal & Messi comparisons a ‘mistake’, says Spain boss

    Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has warned that comparing Lamine Yamal to footballing icons like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona is a "mistake" that could hinder the teenager's development. Despite the caution, the La Roja boss admitted the Barcelona star belongs in a rare category of "geniuses" alongside historical figures like Michelangelo and Salvador Dali.

  2. Lineker joins ITV and jokingly takes over from Woods after BBC exit

    Gary Lineker made a sensational return to free-to-air television on Saturday night, appearing on ITV's World Cup coverage just weeks after his high-profile departure from the BBC. The former England captain joined the rival broadcaster as a studio guest for the Group E showdown between Germany and Ivory Coast, appearing alongside host Laura Woods and even cheekily hijacking the broadcast.