Mostafa "Zico" Mohamed was preparing for a summer vacation on the northern coast of Egypt when an unexpected call-up to the national team changed his plans.
"I was a long way from the national team and honestly I didn't expect it," said the Pyramids FC striker after scoring a goal and assisting in Egypt's 3-1 victory over New Zealand.
"Coach Hossam Hassan brought me from the north coast. I was about to go on holiday and suddenly I found myself at the World Cup," added the 29-year-old, who made his career in the Egyptian league.
A not-so-important player before the World Cup, Zico is emerging as one of Egypt's best at the global event.
Named after Brazilian legend Zico, he is part of a long tradition in Egyptian football of players adopting the names of international stars.
The striker, who can play on both wings and in the center, rewarded his coach's trust with a series of impactful performances.
He scored in the friendlies before the World Cup, against Russia and Brazil. He also scored against New Zealand in the World Cup, and also assisted Mohamed Salah. He scored with his back heel.
This was Egypt's first ever World Cup victory. With the victory, Egypt is in a good position to advance to the knockout stages.
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"From the first minute until now, coach Hossam Hassan has given us confidence," Zico said. "Thank God I haven't let him down for a second."
Despite Egypt's positive start, Zico said the players were not taking things too seriously.
"We haven't achieved anything yet. I hope we can go even further. We are the strongest team in Africa. Why not go as far as possible in this World Cup?" asked the striker, who could easily have been on holiday instead of shining at the biggest football event.
