Egypt's Ezzeldin Bahader has been recognised as the world's oldest professional football player after completing a second full match just short of his 75th birthday.
Bahader was awarded the title by Guinness World Records after missing a penalty kick as his team, 6th October, lost 3-2 to El Ayat Sports club in the Egyptian third division, according to Reuters.
The former amateur player, who turns 75 on November 3, scored a goal from the penalty spot in his debut match on March.
He planned to play a second 90-minute match the same month to claim his record, but the suspension of sporting activities to contain the spread of the coronavirus put his plans on hold.
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Going strong at 74
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Egyptian Ezzeldin Bahader, 74, has been recognised as the oldest professional football player in the world. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader while playing for 6th October Club against El Ayat Sports Club of Egypt's third division league at the Olympic Stadium in the Cairo suburb of Maadi. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader, second right, with his 6th October Club team-mates ahead of the match against El Ayat Sports Club of Egypt's third division league at the Olympic Stadium in the Cairo suburb of Maadi. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader receives the Guinness World Record certification for being the oldest active football player. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader, 74, has been recognised as the oldest professional football player in the world. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader during the match between 6th October Club and El Ayat Sports Club of Egypt's third division league at the Olympic Stadium. Reuters -
Some of Ezzeldin Bahader's six grandchildren turned up to watch him play in Egypt's third division league at the Olympic Stadium in the Cairo suburb of Maadi. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader said having him on the team has helped 6th October Club gain popularity and sponsors. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader before the match against El Ayat Sports Club. Reuters -
Ezzeldin Bahader in action at the Olympic Stadium in the Cairo suburb of Maadi. Reuters
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Bahader had previously told media he was 75, which he attributed to "rounding up". Having him on the team had allowed 6th October to gain sponsors and publicity, he said.
Some of Bahader's six grandchildren attended the match, chanting "Come on, Grandpa" from the touchline.
"I dream of being able to break my own record one more time, just to make the competition a little harder," Bahader said, though he is now out of contract.
The record was previously held by 73-year-old Israeli Isaak Hayik.
