Record game for Hassan

Egypt’s midfielder, Ahmed Hassan, has equaled the record for the World’s most-capped player after earning his 178th cap in a friendly against Brazil in Doha last week.

Keeping the record in the Middle East, he now shares the title with former Saudi Arabian goalkeeper, Mohamed Al Deayea, who retired in 2006.

Unfortunately, the occasion was not marked by success as the Brazilians ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.

Now aged 36, Hassan has accumulated his caps over a 16 year career – although those wanting to confine him to the commentary box had better be warned that he intends to continue playing until he is 40!

Hassan has scored 32 goals in his illustrious career. In a fitting tribute, he was handed the captain’s armband by Wael Gomaa when he entered the field of play as a substitute.

As an outfield player, and someone currently plying his trade at international level, he is without comparison.  His closest rival, Argentina full-back, Javier Zanetti, has reached a relatively modest 141 caps although, aged 41, and only being classed as ‘active’ following a brief return in the summer, has little realistic chance of catching Hassan.

As the speed of the game increases and the balance between club and country becomes ever more difficult, this could be a record that stands forever.