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
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has lauded the rapid development of Jeremy Jacquet after the young defender played a pivotal role in the Reds' narrow 1-0 win over Bournemouth. The 21-year-old’s commanding display capped off a dream week that also saw him receive his maiden senior call-up to the French national team.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has moved to shut down Matheus Cunha's suggestion that his squad is struggling with fitness levels following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Fulham. The Red Devils required a late intervention to avoid another defeat in what has become their most difficult opening to a Premier League campaign in over a decade.
Dominik Livakovic has opened up about his dream debut for Barcelona, revealing the vital role that a familiar face played in helping him settle into life with the Spanish giants. The Croatian goalkeeper was a surprise inclusion in Hansi Flick's starting line-up for the emphatic 3-1 victory over Sevilla, leapfrogging Wojciech Szczesny in the pecking order for the night.
Arsenal saw their flawless start to the Premier League season come to a crashing halt on Saturday afternoon as Brighton ran riot at the Amex Stadium. While the result was damaging enough for Mikel Arteta’s side, the afternoon could have ended even more sourly had Declan Rice been dismissed for a late moment of madness.
Harry Kane has refused to be drawn into a war of words with Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal despite the teenager seemingly aiming a dig at the England captain’s Ballon d'Or credentials. The prolific Bayern Munich striker chose the high road after his latest Bundesliga landmark, opting to praise the Spanish youngster rather than retaliate to claims that goal tallies shouldn't decide football's biggest individual prize.
Mikel Arteta did not hold back in his assessment of Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Brighton, accusing his players of failing to respect fundamental footballing principles. The Gunners arrived on the south coast boasting a flawless record this term, but uncharacteristic defensive mistakes saw the reigning Premier League champions comprehensively beaten.
Lamine Yamal has lifted the lid on Marcus Rashford's initial struggles in El Clasico during his loan spell at Barcelona. The teenage sensation explained how the Manchester United forward quickly learned the intense demands of Spanish football's biggest rivalry, eventually transforming his approach to deliver a standout performance against Real Madrid.
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has thrown his support behind young defenders Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven following their Carabao Cup exit. The Red Devils threw away a two-goal lead in a dismal 3-2 defeat to Brighton, prompting heavy criticism of the inexperienced centre-back pairing. Despite the setback, Carrick insists both players remain crucial to his long-term plans at Old Trafford.
Hansi Flick has admitted that managing Barcelona’s star-studded squad is becoming an emotional challenge despite the club’s flawless start to the La Liga campaign. The German head coach watched his side navigate a difficult encounter to secure another three points, yet he confessed that leaving high-profile names on the bench is the most taxing part of his job at the Camp Nou.
Liam Rosenior found himself at the centre of a heated post-match confrontation after leading Paris FC to a 2-1 victory over his former employers Strasbourg. The English manager, who was sacked by Chelsea earlier this year, saw his wild celebrations spark a mass melee involving players and staff at the Stade Jean-Bouin.
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has insisted he still supports the use of VAR despite a costly error in the recent Manchester derby defeat. A failure to spot Enzo Fernandez interfering with play allowed Erling Haaland's winner to stand, prompting a swift apology from refereeing body Pro Ref. However, Carrick has stressed that their words offer little comfort following a bitter 1-0 loss to Manchester City.
Jose Mourinho has come out swinging against those comparing his Real Madrid side to a rampant Barcelona, insisting that the La Liga title race is a marathon rather than a sprint. The Portuguese tactician is preparing his squad for a high-stakes trip to the Metropolitano to face Atletico Madrid this Sunday.
Thomas Tuchel has effectively slammed the door shut on Harry Maguire’s international career while issuing a stern defensive ultimatum to Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Three Lions boss has made several ruthless decisions in his latest squad selection, signalling a shift in culture as he prepares for the next tournament cycle after heartbreaking World Cup exit.
Tottenham Hotspur’s disastrous start to the new Premier League campaign reached a fresh low this weekend, leaving Roberto De Zerbi branding Spurs the most mentally 'fragile' side he has ever managed. Following a demoralising 3-2 defeat at the hands of Aston Villa, the Italian tactician did not hold back in his assessment of a side that currently sits in the relegation zone.
Jurgen Klopp has launched a scathing attack on the German press following the leak of his inaugural national team squad. The 59-year-old manager did not hold back during his press conference, labelling the premature reveal of Elversberg star Felix Keidel as 'pathetic' while explaining his unique 44-man selection.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi to land yet another Ballon d'Or title after the legendary forward reached a century of goals for the MLS outfit. The former England captain believes Messi's continued excellence at the age of 39, combined with his talismanic performances on the world stage, makes him the standout candidate for football's most prestigious individual accolade.
Michael Carrick is facing an increasingly uncertain future at Old Trafford as the pressure begins to ramp up following a disastrous start to the new campaign. Despite only signing a permanent long-term contract in May, the Manchester United legend is already being warned that his tenure could be cut short if results do not drastically improve.
Jurgen Klopp has officially ushered in a new era for the German national team by confirming Marc-Andre ter Stegen as his undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. The decision comes in the wake of Manuel Neuer’s definitive retirement from international football following his final appearance at the World Cup.
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has addressed the growing backlash regarding his decision to obscure a support T-shirt for the city of Ceuta. The French forward, alongside team-mates Vinicius Junior and Ibrahima Konate, faced significant criticism after partially covering the message during the pre-match ceremonies of Madrid's 3-2 victory over Elche.
Barcelona have officially entered a new era of dominance under Hansi Flick, with the German tactician transforming the Blaugrana into a relentless scoring juggernaut. Following a devastating 7-2 demolition of Racing Santander, the Catalan giants have secured their best-ever start to a season, while talisman Raphinha matches Lionel Messi in rewriting the club’s history books.
