Egypt and Zamalek’s footballing legend Hamada Emam died Saturday at the age of 73.
Emam is considered one of Zamalek’s best-ever players and is widely respected among Egyptian football fans due to his mild manners.
He has occupied various posts since retiring from football in 1974 and was one of Egypt’s most popular football commentators from the early 1990s until he passed away.
A deep-lying forward, Emam led Zamalek to a host of titles including the Egyptian Premier League in 1965. He was also famous for scoring a hat-trick as Zamalek crushed English side West Ham 5-1 in a friendly game in 1966.
Emam, best known for his trickery and catchy feints, is the son of late Zamalek goalkeeper Yehia Emam and the father of another club icon in former playmaker Hazem Emam, who is now a Zamalek football director.
“Please pray for captain Hamada Emam,” said Zamalek’s head coach Mido, a few hours before the club take on ENPPI in a Premier League game.
Ahly, Zamalek’s perennial rivals, also paid homage to one of the best footballers ever to have graced the game.
“Ahly club is offering its condolences to great player and football icon Hamada Emam who passed away today,” the club said in a brief statement.
Source: Ahram Online
