Expert opinion: Yassine Bounou, the greatest goalkeeper in the history of Moroccan football?

Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the key architect behind his Saudi club Al Hilal’s qualification for the quarter-finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

To discuss the exploits of Al Hilal’s star man, Foot Africa reached out to Moroccan journalist Ahmed Mechouary, who answered the following question: Has Yassine Bounou become the best goalkeeper in the history of Moroccan football?

It’s true that Yassine Bounou keeps racking up outstanding performances, whether for his clubs or the national team, but I don’t agree with those who believe he is the greatest goalkeeper in Moroccan football history.

Personally, I have a soft spot for Badou Zaki, whom I consider an iconic goalkeeper who cannot be matched because of his sporting qualities that made him an "impenetrable wall," as well as his leadership and ability to inspire those around him.

Those who watched the 1986 World Cup know exactly what I mean; he single-handedly took Morocco to the second round after producing exceptional performances, especially against England.

Yassine Bounou played a key role in Morocco’s historic run at the 2022 World Cup and shone in every stage, but in my opinion, he is still far from dethroning Badou Zaki as the greatest goalkeeper in Moroccan football history.

Yassine Bounou’s dream World Cup

The last line of defense for the "Atlas Lions" was outstanding in the match against Manchester City in the Club World Cup round of 16, with the Zaeem clinching a 4-3 victory.

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Moreover, he pulled off an incredible 23 saves in his four appearances in this international competition.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.