Africa Cup of Nations: Mali 0-0 Egypt
- Published
Essam El Hadary is a four-time winner of the Nations Cup
Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary became the oldest player at an Africa Cup of Nations tournament as he kept a clean sheet in their draw against Mali.
El-Hadary turned 44 on Sunday and came on in the first half after an injury to Ahmed El-Shenawy, who collided with the post following Moussa Marega's cross.
Arsenal's Mohamed Elneny wasted two first-half chances for Egypt, striking over and hitting an effort wide.
Osmane Coulibaly headed over from close range for Mali late on.
The results leaves Egypt second in Group D behind Ghana, who beat Uganda 1-0.
Veteran goalkeeper goes on
Legendary Egyptian goalkeeper El Hadary was on the bench for the game, but got the call for his 148th cap after El-Shenawy's unfortunate injury.
He is widely regarded as one of Africa's best-ever goalkeepers, winning the domestic league title eight times, as well as the domestic cup and African Champions League on four occasions each.
Playing in his seventh tournament, having picked up a winners' medal in 1998, 2006, 2008 and 2010, El Hadary was not fully tested, but was confidently off his line to punch the ball clear and showed good speed by sprinting out to thwart Mali forward Marega.
In a game of few chances, Egypt's best effort came to striker Marwan Mohsen, whose header was pushed away by a flying Oumar Sissoko save.