Egypt goalkeeper Essam El Hadary. (File | AP)
CAIRO: Egypt's goalkeeper Essam El Hadary says he's retiring from the national team after making history and becoming the oldest soccer player to play in a World Cup match during the tournament in Russia.
The 45-year-old posted on Facebook late on Monday: "After 22 years, four months and 12 days, I saw it as the best moment to hang up my gloves."
El Hadary debuted for the Pharaohs in 1996 and says he's "very proud" after playing in 159 international matches.
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He played in Egypt's final group game in Russia, saving a penalty in the Pharaohs' 2-1 defeat by Saudi Arabia.
El Hadary will remain goalie for Egypt's Ismaili team. He's a celebrity at home since Egypt won three straight African Cup titles with him as goalie between 2006 and 2010.
