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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. Gavi leaves Rodri in pain with brutal training ground tackle

    Spain's World Cup preparations have been rocked by an incident involving Barcelona star Gavi and Manchester City midfield anchor Rodri. During a training session in the United States, the young midfielder’s trademark aggression resulted in a challenge that left his veteran teammate crumpled on the turf in significant pain.

  2. Bellingham leaves Ngumoha 'speechless' after England debut

    Liverpool sensation Rio Ngumoha admitted he was left "speechless" after receiving his first senior England cap from Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham following a dream debut for the Three Lions. The 17-year-old winger was introduced as a second-half substitute in the pre-World Cup friendly victory over New Zealand, capping off a remarkable breakthrough season with a maiden international appearance.

  3. Iran v Gambia - Friendlies ANTALYA, TURKIYE - MAY 29: Players of Iran National Football Team celebrate after their teammate Mehdi Taremi (9) scored a goal during a friendly football match against Gambia at Titanic Mardan Palace Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkiye on May 29, 2026. Orhan Cicek Anadolu Antalya Turkey. Editorial use only. Please get in touch for any other usage. Copyright: x2026xAnadoluxOrhanxCicekx

    Iran forced into match-day only US entry as government makes terrorism claim

    The 2026 World Cup has been plunged into fresh diplomatic controversy after it was revealed that Iran's national team will be forced to follow strict same-day entry and exit rules for their matches in the United States. Following a series of security claims and heightened geopolitical tensions, the squad has been told they can only step onto American soil on the actual days they are scheduled to play.

  4. Lennart Karl Germany 2026

    Disaster for Germany as team-mate explains how Karl suffered awful injury

    Germany have been dealt a massive blow ahead of the 2026 World Cup with the news that Bayern Munich starlet Lennart Karl has been ruled out of the tournament. The 18-year-old’s dreams were crushed during the final training session before Germany's friendly against the USA, leaving Julian Nagelsmann to find an emergency replacement. Team-mate Deniz Undav later detailed the awful setback.

  1. Chelsea legend Tambling dies aged 84

    Chelsea has been plunged into mourning following the death of Bobby Tambling, one of the most prolific marksman in the club’s history, at the age of 84. A true Stamford Bridge icon, the former England international held the club's goalscoring record for nearly half a century before it was eventually surpassed by Frank Lampard in 2013.

  2. Simeone wants Greenwood to join him at Atletico

    Diego Simeone has reportedly identified Mason Greenwood as the ideal addition to his Atletico Madrid frontline as the Spanish giants prepare for a potential shake-up in attack. The English forward has been a revelation in France, prompting Marseille to slap a massive price tag on their prized asset ahead of the summer window.

  3. Yan Diomande RB Leipzig 2025

    Diomande drops major hint he's going to snub Liverpool

    Liverpool’s summer transfer plans have been rocked after top target Yan Diomande openly confessed his lifelong affection for Paris Saint-Germain. The RB Leipzig sensation has been tipped as the man to replace Mohamed Salah at Anfield, but his latest comments suggest his heart is set on the Parc des Princes.

  4. Perez CONFIRMS first Madrid signings and Vinicius future

    Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has sent shockwaves through the football world by confirming the club's first major signings for the upcoming season. Speaking ahead of the crucial presidential elections, the 79-year-old incumbent revealed that both a defensive powerhouse and a legendary manager are set to arrive at the Bernabeu.