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Egypt's Essam El-Hadary now World Cup's oldest-ever player, saves penalty

Goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary became the oldest player in World Cup history after being named in the starting XI for Egypt against Saudi Arabia, and he saved a penalty in his side's 2-1 defeat.

El Hadary, who is 45 years and 161 days old, is at his first World Cup for the Pharaohs and won his 157th cap. He also saved a first-half penalty from Fahad Al-Muwallad.

Ahmed Fathy was penalised for a handball just inside the box, but the goalkeeper was equal to Al-Muwallad's powerful spot kick and pushed it onto the bar. However, he could do nothing about a second penalty awarded to Saudi Arabia and was beaten by Salman Al-Faraj.

El Hadary beat the previous age record, held by Colombia keeper Faryd Mondragon, who was 43 years and three days old when he appeared at the World Cup in 2014.

Speaking at a prematch news conference before he was confirmed as a starter, El-Hadary said: "Obviously every player wants to set a record. It would not only be my achievement but also an achievement for Egypt."

Egypt were seeking a first World Cup win at their third tournament appearance but finished bottom of Group A as they lost to Uruguay and Russia, before a 95th minute goal by Salem Al-Dawsari saw Saudi Arabia claim a late win on Monday.

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