Yassine Bounou: A Leading Goalkeeper in Global Penalty Saves
Spanish newspaper Marca reported on June 19, 2025, that Yassine Bounou, goalkeeper for the Moroccan national team and Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia, continues to excel as a premier specialist in saving penalties, establishing himself as a global leader in this area.
At 33 years old, Bounou is recognized as one of the world’s top goalkeepers, known for his exceptional performances and remarkable consistency.
Bounou’s Performance in the Club World Cup
Marca highlighted Bounou’s unique skills during the Club World Cup, where he made a crucial save against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde during stoppage time, maintaining a 1-1 draw for Al Hilal. The report noted that Bounou successfully saved three out of six penalties faced during his time with the club, showcasing his high skill level and exceptional focus.
The Keys to Bounou’s Success: Instinct and Luck
In statements reported by the newspaper, Bounou emphasized the significant roles of instinct and luck in saving penalties, alongside his dedication to meticulous work. This combination of skill and psychological elements has made him a difficult goalkeeper to surpass in this specialized area.
Real Madrid’s Interest in Bounou
Marca also discussed Real Madrid’s interest in acquiring Bounou in the summer of 2023, following an injury to their goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. Bounou was the primary candidate to bolster the royal club’s goalkeeping position; however, concerns over his potential absence during the Africa Cup of Nations hindered the completion of the transfer.
Bounou’s Aspirations with River Plate
The report included Bounou’s expressed dream of one day wearing the jersey of the Argentine club River Plate, citing a strong family connection to the team. Bounou previously played for Sevilla in Spain, where he had notable performances before joining Al Hilal.
Historic Achievement with the Moroccan National Team
Marca concluded its report by praising Bounou’s pivotal role in leading the Moroccan national team to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a historic achievement that has made him a sports icon in Morocco and on the international stage.
