Egypt goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary (Photo: Ahram)
Egypt goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary ended a turbulent month on a high note after playing a key role in helping El-Merreikh win the Sudanese Cup on Wednesday.
The veteran guardian, 39, blocked three penalties against arch-rivals Hilal to give El-Merreikh a 3-1 shootout victory following a goalless draw.
El-Hadary had a month to forget after committing a cataclysmic error that contributed to his side’s African Confederation Cup exit.
In the semi-final first-leg against Congolese side AC Leopard, El-Hadary let the ball slip out of his hands while he was trying to bounce it in front of an opponent, gifting the hosts a stunning goal.
Leopard won the first leg 2-1 and advanced to the final on the away-goal rule following a scoreless draw in the second leg.
El-Merreikh also failed to clinch the Sudanese League title, which was won by Hilal.
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