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. Cherki 'hungry like crazy' for World Cup glory

    Rayan Cherki has issued a defiant battle cry as France gear up for their World Cup round of 16 clash, insisting the squad is more motivated than ever. Despite recent scrutiny regarding his relationship with manager Didier Deschamps, the Manchester City playmaker insists his focus is firmly on their upcoming knockout clash against Paraguay.

  2. Tah breaks silence on Germany World Cup exit

    Jonathan Tah has opened up on the psychological toll of his missed penalty that confirmed Germany’s shock exit from the 2026 World Cup. The Bayern Munich defender was the man who ultimately failed to convert from 12 yards, but reports have since emerged regarding the reluctance of his team-mates to step up during the high-pressure moment.

  3. Why USMNT can't appeal Balogun's red card

    The USMNT secured their place in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, but the victory has been marred by a major disciplinary blow. Folarin Balogun, who opened the scoring in Santa Clara, was dismissed in the 64th minute following a VAR review. Despite the frustration within the American camp, the AS Monaco forward is now set to miss the clash against Belgium, with US Soccer unable to appeal the decision.

  1. 📽️ | Cherki appears to snub Deschamps in Sweden rout

    France may have booked their place in the World Cup round of 16 with a dominant victory over Sweden, but the post-match celebrations have been marred by a seemingly frosty encounter between Rayan Cherki and Didier Deschamps. The Manchester City playmaker was captured on camera appearing to blank his manager at the final whistle, raising questions about the harmony within the Les Bleus camp.