Yazan still can't forget Messi's "cologne scent": "I could smell it even from 10 meters away, a dreamlike experience"... Also stunned by his skill, "I kept turning my head nonstop" [Sangam Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

Yazan (30) recalled his encounter with "the Emperor of Football," Lionel Messi (40).

Seoul drew 0-0 without scoring in its home match in Round 17 of "Hana Bank K League 1 2026" held at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 12th.

Both teams shared one point each. Seoul, which has gone unbeaten in four matches (three wins and one draw), surged to the top with 36 points (11 wins, three draws, three losses). Gangwon, unbeaten in seven matches (four wins and three draws), maintained third place with 28 points (seven wins, seven draws, three losses).

Starting as a central defender for the day, Yazan played the full match and led his team to a scoreless result. However, after the game, when he met in the joint interview zone (mixed zone), he was filled with regret over not securing a victory. He said, "It was a tough match under the intense heat. We prepared well and had chances, but luck wasn't on our side." He added, "We wanted three points but only got one, which is frustrating. We are a team that must win. We will focus on the next match."

Yazan returned after participating in the North American World Cup as a key defender for the Jordan national team. Jordan suffered three consecutive losses in Group J of the group stage against Austria, Algeria, and Argentina. Playing the full 90 minutes in all three matches, Yazan failed to advance to the knockout stage but gained valuable experience facing world-class attackers.

Yazan stated, "As a professional, I strive to give my best in every match and continue to improve. It is true that the big stage of the World Cup boosted my confidence." He emphasized, "Above all, I feel that my teammates fight for me, and I also play for the team. My belief in the team and my teammates is the source of my confidence."

He also reflected on his matchup with "the Emperor of Football," Lionel Messi. Yazan said, "Playing against the greatest player in history was a dreamlike experience. Although we lost, I learned a lot regardless of the result."

When asked what about Messi made him so difficult to stop, he replied, "While on the field, I kept turning my head constantly. It was amazing how he continuously scanned his surroundings, looking for open spaces and the right positions — it was truly surprising." He continued, "Another memorable moment was when Messi was substituted in during the second half; even though he was 10 meters away, I could still smell his cologne."

After facing world-class players, Yazan also expressed respect for K League attackers. He said, "K League players possess excellent skills and techniques. I have never once thought they were easy to face." He praised them further, stating, "If Korean players gain more self-confidence, they will have the ability to perform at even higher levels, such as by moving to Europe."

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*This content was translated by AI.