The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) ends with the grand finale in Cameroon this Sunday evening, February 6, 2022.

It’s been a tournament of thrills, surprises and drama and one of those who have provided plenty of it is Goalkeeper Mohamed Qotb Abou Gabal Ali, also known as Gabaski, who was again the hero, as The Pharaohs of Egypt silenced hosts, Indomitable Lions of Cameroun, in the second semifinal of the 33rd AFCON on Thursday night, February 3.

Gabaski has been dubbed the man who saw the future – thanks to a prediction made by the goalkeeper when The Pharaohs lost their Group D opening match to the Super Eagles of Nigeria at Stade Roumde Adjia in Garoau, northern Cameroun on January 11.

Supporters of the Super Eagles increased their drumbeat, waving banners and their green-white-green flags. The Augustine Eguavoen-led Super Eagles had just won the battle of Garoua against The Pharaohs and Nigerians were in celebration mood. Virtually all the Egyptians inside the stadium wore long faces except goalkeeper Gabaski.

“Yes, we lost to the Super Eagles today, but this is not the end of the journey for us,” he told the medi, adjusting the white towel on his shoulder. “The Africa Cup of Nations is like a marathon race. There are many battles ahead of all the teams. Nigeria won this battle, but Egypt might end up winning the war in the end.”

Gabaski, plies his trade with Egyptian Premier League giants, Zamalek. His goalkeeping prowess gave the final ticket to his country on February 3, as he saved two penalties in a dramatic shoot-out against boastful Indomitable Lions, who were backed by thousands of their supporters.

It was not the first magical moment for Gabaski in this tournament. After losing to the Super Eagles in Garoua, Egypt marched on through the group stage only to be pitted against Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the round of 16. After 120 minutes of play, including 30 minutes of extra time, The Pharaohs needed the experience of Gabaski to scale through in the penalty shootout. He saved one of the Ivoiriens’ kicks.

Unlike the ugly situation in the Super Eagles’ squad, where goalkeeping problem continue to break the hearts of Nigerians since the departure of Vincent Enyeama, The Pharaohs have a way of benefiting from the men in gloves in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Though Gabaski is one more win from joining the long list of African goalkeepers who distinguished themselves in AFCON, it will not be out of place to say that he is a game away from greatness. Will Gabaski be a nightmare for Sadio Mane and his Senegalese squad in the 33rd AFCON final in Yaoundé? Only time will tell. (Adapted from a Guardian report)