Ismail Matar
Awards & Honours
9
Awards Won
4
Honours
3
Records
Ismail Matar's career is marked by a series of exceptional achievements that underscore his place as a true legend of Emirati football. Winning the Golden Ball at the 2003 FIFA U-20 World Cup was a remarkable feat, establishing him as a world-class talent at a young age and bringing global recognition to UAE football. His leadership in the 2007 Gulf Cup, where he was both the top scorer and player of the tournament, delivered the UAE its first-ever victory in the competition, cementing his status as a national hero.Throughout his extensive tenure with Al Wahda FC, Matar consistently delivered, contributing to multiple domestic titles. His longevity and sustained high level of play for nearly a quarter-century with a single club are rare in modern football, demonstrating his enduring impact and dedication to the sport in the region. He is widely considered a symbol of the UAE's "golden generation" of football talent, inspiring future generations.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Golden Ball at the FIFA U-20 World Championship
Recognized as the tournament's best player.
Player of the Tournament at the Gulf Cup
Awarded for exceptional performance in leading UAE to victory.
Top Scorer at the Gulf Cup
Acknowledged for scoring the most goals in the tournament.
National Hero Status
Celebrated for his contributions to Emirati football and inspiring a generation.
Records & Feats
First Emirati to win FIFA U-20 World Cup Golden Ball
Became the first player from the United Arab Emirates to be awarded the Golden Ball as the best player at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, a significant international recognition.
Most Gulf Cup goals in a single tournament by an Emirati player
Scored five goals in five matches at the 2007 Gulf Cup, leading the UAE to victory and setting a record for an Emirati player in that specific tournament.
Longest-serving player for Al Wahda FC
Represented Al Wahda FC for approximately a quarter of a century, demonstrating remarkable loyalty and longevity with a single club.