Argentina coach Diego Simeone has asked for detailed information on Egypt and Al Ahly goalkeeper Mustafa Shobier after the 24‐year‐old saved a Lionel Messi penalty at the recent World Cup, according to Egyptian outlet Cairo 24.
Simeone impressed in stands during Egypt–Argentina clash
Cairo 24 reports that Simeone, the head coach of Atletico Madrid, was in the stands at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, United States, for Egypt’s last‐16 encounter with Argentina.
The match, which ended 3-2 in favour of the world champions, featured a standout display from Shobier, who not only stopped a penalty taken by Argentina captain and star Lionel Messi but also produced several other crucial saves.
His performance is said to have caught the eye of Simeone, who subsequently sought information on the young goalkeeper’s career and development path.
Inquiry over Shobier’s career and club record
The report states that following the match, Simeone asked for a breakdown of Shobier’s track record in professional football, including the clubs he has represented and his current status at Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
The Argentine coach’s interest is understood to be driven by the level Shobier showed at the World Cup, where he was part of the Egypt squad that reached the knockout stages.
While no formal offer has been reported, the enquiries highlight growing European attention on the goalkeeper, who has largely been known until now for his domestic performances in the Egyptian Premier League and continental competitions with Al Ahly.
Penalty save against Messi draws global attention
Shobier’s most eye‐catching moment came when he denied Messi from the spot during the high‐stakes contest in Atlanta.
The save, combined with a series of interventions against Argentina’s attack, earned him widespread praise despite Egypt ultimately being edged out 3-2 by the defending champions.
His display was singled out by local and regional media as one of the most impressive by an African goalkeeper in the tournament, further boosting his reputation beyond Egypt.
Rising international profile for Al Ahly goalkeeper
Shobier’s World Cup performances have significantly raised his international profile and may influence his future beyond the Egyptian league.
He continues to guard the posts for Al Ahly, where he is competing to establish himself as a long‐term first‐choice goalkeeper at one of Africa’s most successful clubs.
Cairo 24 reports that his showings at the World Cup have “enhanced his value at the international level”, with observers now watching to see whether interest from Europe, symbolised by Simeone’s enquiries, will translate into concrete transfer moves in the coming months.
For now, Shobier remains focused on his role with Al Ahly and the Egypt national team, but his penalty save against Messi and the attention of a coach of Simeone’s stature have placed him firmly on the radar of European scouts.
