Geddo Is by All Means a New Soccer Phenomenon in Egypt
By Aya Kordy
Egypt has a population of about 8 million people, each individual is very distinct from the other in terms of the way they think, speak, believe and live. Egypt has several dilemmas: its economy, the abuse of power by government officials, and the lack of democracy; hence, the nation is divided into various diverse groups. Nonetheless, all these groups can and do unite when it has to .do with one thing: soccer
On the 2nd of February 2010, the Egyptian national team played against Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations in Ghana. The score was 2 -1 for Egypt and Nigeria was really pushing for another goal in the last ten minutes. However, five minutes after the young sun Mohamed Nagy Geddo was admitted into the field, he scored a goal and subsequently became the man of the match. Geddo ‘s soccer career from then on significantly changed.
Fans were overwhelmed; Egyptians fell in love with Geddo. The hidden skills and talent of this young, unidentified player did not end though at the opening game. He was a substitute player like no other, one that manages to score a goal in a very limited amount of time towards the end of each game. Though he was only granted 20 minutes each match, he scored the most goals in the competition. Five goals in six matches led to the discovery of the newly identified star. He was referred to as ‘The Super Sub’.
Interviewers were racing for a word from the new national star. He was a newborn compared to all the other players. The journalism class was privileged enough to conduct an interview with that key player. Gedo was so modest while answering the questions. His name is Mohammed Nagy Ismail, born on the 30th of October in Hoosh Issa in El Behaira governorate. Curious as everyone was, I asked where the nickname Geddo came from. Bluntly replying, he explained that he had an incredible bond with his grandfather and spent a lot of time with him. The name Geddo became then associated with him as a sign of that incredible bond.
He started playing soccer on the streets, then in Hoosh Issa’s Youth Center, then in Damanhur Club, and finally in El Ithad Club. The next question was of his experience in the national team and if he thought he was supposed to start the kick off of the ninety-minute match. Geddo then put in plain words that it was a once in a lifetime experience, continuing that sometimes he felt the urge of playing more; however, he knew that the coach had the team’s best interest at heart. Interrupting me from asking the next question, he added that Alaa and Gamal Mubaraks’ presence gave him and his fellow colleagues the impression of how people back in Egypt were strongly supporting them. How it was different leaving Egypt as an average player from coming back as an idol, was my next question. He implied that it was very hard for him to comprehend that he was for many a source of pleasure. Talking more about soccer, Geddo clarified that his role model in Egyptian soccer is Abou Terika and from abroad Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting that one of his biggest dreams is playing for the Spanish club, Real Madrid.
Ending the interview with a very emotional question, I asked if that quote: “I’ll buy my sister a cell phone if I score five goals” is true. Timidly replying, he explained that his sister believed he was going to score no less than five goals while, he believed it was not possible since there are only six matches, if they reach the finals. She then betted on her hunch and he accepted the challenge agreeing that if she was right he would buy her a cell phone. Fortunate as she was, he did indeed score five goals in the championship. “And I did buy her a cell phone”, he continued.
Geddo proved himself, in the first African Cup tournament he participated in as a player who is indeed a master at his craft. He is a living example of a soul who is solely dedicated and living to achieve his goal, and never considering his simple origin as an obstacle. It was without doubt a delight interviewing such a humble and goal- oriented man.
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق