ZA’TARAH: ‘I WOULD DO IT AGAIN IF WE WERE LOSING’

The man of the moment, Mahmoud Za’tarah, has given the answer to joc.jo to the question that the world’s sports fans have been asking: "Would he have kicked the ball out if his team was losing?”

The Al-Wehdat striker has become a global icon of sportsmanship after a video went viral of him kicking the ball out after seeing an opposing player injured, despite being clear through on goal.

The incident sparked worldwide debate as his team was 2-0 up at the time in the closing minutes of their match against Al Nahda of Oman in the Asian Cup. They went on to win 3-0.

"I would do it again whatever the score is,” the young player said. "It is one of Al-Nashama’s characteristics to respect the opponent regardless of the result. Fair play is always our message.

"I felt like it was my duty to help that player who went down injured and not to take advantage. Football is not a game to win or lose, it’s also the place where you can make friendships and show respect to everyone.

"In this kind of situation, you are focused on the safety of other players, not on the result.” 

Al-Wehdat manager Abdullah Abu Zeme’ said he was proud of his player.

"We are all proud of Za’tarah,” he said: "Respect to others is one of the messages that Jordanians always deliver in their overseas participation.” 

It is believed that the club is now preparing an award for Za’tarah who is also a key member of the Jordan national side.