Mustafa Shobier, the Egyptian national team goalkeeper, revealed the behind-the-scenes details of his save from the penalty kick taken by Argentine star Lionel Messi during the two teams' match in the World Cup, confirming that he relied on studying the Tango captain's method of executing penalties.
Shobier said in statements to MBC Egypt: "The most difficult match for me was against Argentina, as they are world champions and have distinguished names. The first half was extremely difficult, and until now the match is still affecting us psychologically. We did not have the feeling that we would lose, but fatigue and lack of concentration at the end had an impact on us."
He added about Messi's penalty: "I memorized his shooting method, and I knew he would look at me before taking it, but before he placed the ball I noticed he would not shoot in the usual way. I anticipated the angle and waited until the last moment, and I did not look into his eyes at all so as not to put myself under any pressure. I maintained my focus, and I am very happy that I saved the ball."
He continued: "Our ambitions were high against Argentina after the performance against Belgium and the win over New Zealand and the draw with Iran, and I think Hamdi Fathy's ball in the Tango match should have been awarded as a penalty."
Shobier: I cried after the Argentina match
Shobier revealed his emotion at exiting the World Cup after the loss to Argentina, saying: "After the Argentina match I entered the locker room late and cried, even though I do not like to cry in front of anyone, because we knew qualification was very close."
He praised Mohamed Salah, saying: "Mohamed Salah has a great history, and everyone respects and loves him. He is a very smart player and does not withhold advice from any player; rather, he gives it from the heart."
He also spoke about his relationship with Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, saying: "Yassine Bounou is a very respectable person, and we are in constant contact. He messaged me after the Argentina match, and I spoke with him about the penalty he saved against the Netherlands, and I asked him to explain his method to me. It is good for me that some people compare me to him."
Shobier's future with Al Ahly
Regarding his future, Shobier said: "Professionalism is important for any player, but I play for a big club and have a contract extended for another year. I do not know anything about offers, as all matters are with my agent and Al Ahly's management, and in the end the club's opinion and the nature of the offers will decide the matter."
Shobier continued his statements, saying: "People focused on the Moroccan national team after the Qatar World Cup, but I think the Egyptian national team will begin a new phase after the America World Cup, and we will believe that nothing is impossible in football, and this was the content of Mohamed Salah's message."
He concluded his statements, saying: My relationship is good with Zamalek players, and I congratulated all the White players on the league during the national team camp, and I remember kind moments with Shikabala especially when I was 16 years old. We felt sad after losing the league. Last season was not up to the fans' expectations. We know that losing is not Al Ahly's habit. There are no promises in football, but we will certainly do our utmost next season to please the fans."
