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. Legendary referee Collina hits back at Trump over 'very suspect' claims

    Pierluigi Collina has issued a firm rebuttal to United States President Donald Trump following explosive comments regarding the integrity of World Cup match officials. The legendary former referee, now serving as FIFA's Referees Committee Chairman, moved quickly to protect the reputation of the tournament's officiating staff after personal attacks were directed at Brazilian referee Raphael Claus.

  2. Neymar

    Neymar's father pleads with son to 'keep playing football'

    The footballing world stood still as Neymar announced his international retirement in the aftermath of Brazil’s shock exit from the 2026 World Cup. However, the legendary forward’s father has since taken to social media to issue a moving plea, begging his son to reconsider hanging up his boots for good.

  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.