El-Hadary Sets New World Cup Record In Russia

Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary has set a new World Cup record after he became the oldest ever player to feature in the history of the tournament.

At the age of 45, El-Hadary played in his first World Cup match and lasted for the entire duration as Egypt were beaten 2-1 in a Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup Group A clash.

He breaks the record of former Colombia stopper Faryd Mondragon (43 years) who set the record during the last FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Aside the record, Essam El-Hadary also saved a first half penalty to become the fourth goalkeeper to achieve the feat on his debut as well as the oldest man to do so in a World Cup game.

El-Hadary also holds the record as the oldest player to appear in an African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament at 44 years and 363 days.

The Al-Taawoun shot stopper made his debut for Egypt in 1996 and has been capped 159 times.