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. Police confirm 16 Leeds fans reported after homophobic chanting

    Leeds United's FA Cup dreams ended in disappointment at Wembley, but the fallout from the semi-final defeat to Chelsea is continuing off the pitch. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that more than a dozen supporters are facing potential legal action following reports of discriminatory behaviour during the high-profile fixture.

  1. Upgrade on Gyokeres? Arsenal ‘keeping an eye' on Endrick

    Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close watch on Endrick's uncertain future at Real Madrid as Mikel Arteta looks to add more firepower to his attacking ranks this summer following a series of inconsistent performances in front of goal. The Brazilian sensation is currently rebuilding his reputation on loan at Lyon, but a permanent departure from the Bernabeu is no longer being ruled out.

  2. Explained: Why Neymar left out of 980-sticker World Cup album

    Neymar has been the face of Brazilian football for over a decade, but the mercurial forward has suffered a major blow ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 34-year-old has been officially omitted from the iconic Panini sticker album, marking the first time in four editions that he will not be featured among the world's elite players.

  3. Fernandes determined to win World Cup for Ronaldo

    Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has set his sights on delivering the 2026 World Cup for Cristiano Ronaldo as the ultimate tribute to the iconic forward's career. The midfielder believes winning the global showpiece would be the perfect way to reward his long-time team-mate for his unparalleled contribution to the sport.

  4. Yamal reacts to Fermin celebration tribute after injury blow

    Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal has sent an emotional message of thanks to team-mate Fermin Lopez following a touching goal celebration tribute during the Blaugrana's win over Getafe. The teenage sensation has been ruled out for the remainder of the domestic season, but his presence was still felt as the Catalan giants moved a step closer to the Liga title.

  5. '1,500 goals' but Messi & Suarez lack 'magic' at new home

    Inter Miami’s glittering new home, Nu Stadium, is still waiting for its first victory party after Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez failed to break a frustrating deadlock against the New England Revolution. Despite having a staggering goal-scoring pedigree between them, the legendary strike duo couldn't find the decisive touch required to secure three points in front of an expectant Floridian crowd.

  6. Arbeloa hails 'brave' Vinicius for 'turning whistles into applause'

    Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has jumped to the defence of Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian forward successfully navigated a hostile atmosphere at the Bernabeu to score the winning goal against Alaves in La Liga on Tuesday. Despite the tension following a disappointing Champions League exit, the winger proved to be the difference-maker as Los Blancos secured a vital victory in their pursuit of catching Barcelona.