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
The future of Argentina national team hangs in the balance as Lionel Scaloni weighs up his continuation following a devastating 2026 World Cup final defeat. Despite the uncertainty, AFA president Claudio Tapia has made his stance clear, insisting there is no alternative to the man who led the Albiceleste to global glory four years ago.
UEFA has refused to back down in its explosive stand-off with FIFA, despite a public apology from Gianni Infantino. European football's governing body maintains that its member nations could still boycott the World Cup and other major tournaments following the controversial FIFA Forward Enterprises privatisation plot.
Manchester United have officially announced the arrival of their sixth signing of the summer transfer window as Cristian Orozco completes his move to the Premier League. The highly-rated Colombian midfielder joins the Red Devils following his 18th birthday, marking the next phase of the club's recruitment strategy.
Man City boss Enzo Maresca has reportedly set his sights on Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as his primary target to replace the departing Rodri. The Italian tactician, who worked closely with the Argentine during his tenure at Stamford Bridge, believes the 2022 World Cup winner is the ideal candidate to anchor the Citizens' midfield.
Liverpool are sensationally weighing up a move to bring England’s World Cup breakout star Djed Spence to Anfield this summer. The Tottenham defender has seen his stock skyrocket after a series of dominant displays in North America, prompting the Reds to consider a major defensive reinforcement.
Gianni Infantino is facing explosive new allegations after leaked documents suggested he was involved in discussions to bring the European Super League under FIFA’s umbrella. While the broader football community opposed the breakaway project in 2021, reports indicate the FIFA president explored the possibility of branding the competition as the "FIFA Super League."
Chelsea have been told that a new goalkeeper is a necessity this summer as former Premier League star Shay Given hit out at Robert Sanchez's inconsistent form. The former Newcastle and Republic of Ireland international believes the Blues need to act now to secure a more reliable presence between the sticks by signing a former Liverpool shot-stopper.
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has expressed his delight following the arrival of Danny Welbeck at Stamford Bridge, describing the veteran striker as a mentor who has shaped his career in England. The Brazilian star believes the former Manchester United and Arsenal man will be a transformative presence for Xabi Alonso’s side both on the pitch and inside the dressing room.
The Argentine Football Association has officially declared July 15 as 'National Football Teams Day' to commemorate their historic 2026 World Cup semi-final triumph over England. The date immortalises a dramatic comeback in Atlanta where the Albiceleste scored twice in the final minutes to shatter English dreams and secure their place in a second consecutive final.
Manchester United have been tipped to have secured the signing of the season following their cut-price acquisition of Belgian international Youri Tielemans. Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given believes the Red Devils have pulled off a masterstroke in the transfer market, while also hailing shot-stopper Senne Lammens as the club's most complete keeper in years.
Barcelona are reportedly ready to throw a massive spanner in the works for Real Madrid as they explore a sensational deal to sign Manchester City linchpin Rodri. The Blaugrana have held talks with the Spain international's camp as they look to capitalise on his desire to return to his homeland.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has hit out at Mohamed Salah's decision to join Turkish side Trabzonspor, claiming the Egyptian icon is still far 'too good' to be playing in the Super Lig. The forward has ended months of speculation by agreeing to move to the Akyazi Arena following his emotional departure from Anfield as a free agent.
Former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given has delivered a chilling warning to the St James' Park faithful, suggesting that the club could be spiralling toward a relegation battle. Following a summer of absolute turmoil that saw manager Eddie Howe resign and the squad’s core ripped out, the Irishman believes the current state of the club is enough to justify the fans' deepest anxieties.
Newcastle legend Shay Given has backed Eddie Howe to eventually lead the England national team following his departure from St James’ Park. The former Magpies goalkeeper believes Howe possesses all the qualities required to succeed Thomas Tuchel at the Three Lions' helm but expects the tactician to take a hiatus from the dugout first.
Arsenal have taken a massive step toward reinforcing their title-winning squad after reaching a £75 million agreement to sign Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian midfielder is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days to finalise a move that has left some former stars questioning the logic behind the deal.
Gianni Infantino has issued a rare public apology for the controversial proposal to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors. Despite the immense backlash that forced a total U-turn on the project, the embattled chief has managed to retain his position following crisis meetings in Morocco.
Arsenal have been told that while Vinicius Junior would undoubtedly become the best player at the Emirates, his arrival could potentially dismantle the hard-earned collective spirit fostered by Mikel Arteta. The Gunners are reportedly weighing up a sensational move for the Real Madrid superstar, but figures within the game are urging caution over the financial and social impact on the squad.
Chelsea fans in Hong Kong have been left frustrated after star duo Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill were notable absentees from the squad to face Juventus. Both players have been integral to the Blues' pre-season preparations under new manager Xabi Alonso, but they will play no part in the high-profile friendly at the Kai Tak Stadium.
Gianni Infantino is desperately fighting to save his presidency after reportedly calling a high-stakes crisis meeting in Morocco to address an unprecedented internal revolt. The FIFA chief has seen his authority crumble following the collapse of a controversial plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.
Manchester United's goalkeeping ranks are thinning further, with Altay Bayindir becoming the third shot-stopper set to depart Old Trafford. Having struggled for minutes under Michael Carrick, the Turkish international has reportedly agreed to join Celta Vigo and is now heading to Spain for a medical to revive his career.
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=3840&quality=60)
