Former Egyptian international Essam El Hadary has commended Morocco’s Yassine Bounou following his stellar performance against Canada, crowning the Atlas Lions’ star as the greatest goalkeeper in Arab football history.
The legendary Egyptian shot-stopper made the remarks during a recent interview with Sky News Arabia, where he expressed his deep admiration for the Moroccan star’s composure and high-stakes performances.
El Hadary didn’t hold back his praise, stating: “I take my hat off to a truly great, world-class goalkeeper, and I bow in respect to him.”
The Egyptian goalkeeper went further to explain how vital Bounou is to his team’s success, even setting aside his own personal claims to the title of the Arab world’s greatest to honor the Moroccan star.
“Bounou deserves to receive his full share of appreciation; he isn’t just half the team, he represents 85 percent of its strength. I always used to say that I was the greatest goalkeeper in the Arab world, but now I say: No, Yassine Bounou is the greatest.” El Hadary said.
Looking ahead to the Moroccan star’s future, El Hadary insisted that Bounou’s talents belong on the absolute biggest stage in football.
“Bounou deserves to play for the best club in the world, and in the strongest league in the world.” He concluded.
Played at Houston Stadium in Texas, the high-stakes Round of 16 match saw Yassine Bounou anchor a brilliant defensive display, keeping a vital clean sheet as the Atlas Lions secured a dominant 3–0 win over Canada to punch their ticket to the quarterfinals.
Morocco’s victory sets up a highly anticipated quarterfinal battle with France this coming Thursday.
Meeting at Boston Stadium, the Atlas Lions will face their toughest test yet as they fight to extend their historic World Cup run.
The former Egyptian international believes Bounou has become the cornerstone of Morocco’s success, insisting the goalkeeper’s influence extends far beyond his role between the posts.
“Bounou deserves to receive his full share of appreciation; he isn’t just half the team, he represents 85 percent of its strength. I always used to say that I was the greatest goalkeeper in the Arab world, but now I say: No, Yassine Bounou is the greatest.”
