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. Davies opens up on 'tough' World Cup exit

    Alphonso Davies has opened up on the physical and emotional toll of Canada’s World Cup exit, describing the tournament as one of the most difficult periods of his professional life. Despite high expectations for the co-hosts, the Bayern Munich star was largely reduced to a spectator role as injury curtailed his involvement on the global stage.

  2. Tuchel jokes Kane could call Trump over Quansah red card

    Thomas Tuchel has aimed a sarcastic jab at FIFA’s disciplinary process, joking that England captain Harry Kane should perhaps lobby US President Donald Trump to resolve the Three Lions' Jarell Quansah suspension headache. The comments come in the wake of a stunning decision that saw USMNT star Folarin Balogun cleared to play despite a straight red card earlier in the tournament.

  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.