In a scene that encapsulates decades of footballing glory and enduring memories, the city of Jeddah witnessed an extraordinary gathering of Saudi football legends at the home of the legendary full-back, Mohammed Abduljawad. It was more than just a casual visit; it was a demonstration of love and loyalty, a gesture of concern for Abduljawad's health following his recent illness. His home transformed into a living museum, a repository of memories for those who have shaped the history of Saudi sports.
A surprise visit worth its weight in gold
The legends entered without any official protocols, led by former world record holder and all-time top scorer Majed Abdullah, as if he carried with him the glorious spirit of the 1980s. Sami Al-Jaber, the icon of the 1990s, coach, and football expert, was also present, along with the formidable Mohammed Noor and the lightning-fast striker Malek Maaz. This spontaneous gathering embodied the highest ideals of brotherhood, where club colors and rivalry fade away, leaving the true essence of the Saudi player as the most prominent feature.
Abdul Jawad... the defender who was ahead of his time
To understand the significance of this visit, we must look back a little, specifically to the 1980s, when Mohammed Abduljawad represented a tactical revolution in the left-back position. He wasn't just a defender; he was a flying winger who helped change the concept of this position in Asian football. Abduljawad is one of the pillars of the golden generation that led the Saudi national team to its first continental title in the 1984 AFC Asian Cup, retaining it in 1988, and qualifying for the Olympics, making him a cornerstone in the collective memory of Saudi fans.
Recalling the memories of China's eternal goal
Perhaps the most striking image that resonated with the audience and fans upon seeing Majed Abdullah alongside Mohammed Abduljawad was that iconic goal in the 1984 Asian Cup final against China. That masterpiece began with a marathon run by Abduljawad, who dribbled past defenders, culminating in a sublime pass to Majed Abdullah, who rounded the goalkeeper and slotted the ball into the net. That moment wasn't just a goal; it heralded the birth of a new Asian powerhouse, "Al-Akhdar" (The Green), and the unique chemistry between the full-back and the striker that continues to be studied to this day.
A message for generations and a societal impact
This visit carries significance that transcends the personal; it sends a powerful message to the current generation of players and passionate fans: fierce competition on the pitch ends with the final whistle, but human relationships and camaraderie endure. The presence of Sami Al-Jaber, Mohammed Noor, and Malek Maaz represents a continuity of generations, as these stars were raised on the legacy of Majed and Abduljawad, and then carried the torch to continue the journey of achievements in the World Cup and continental tournaments.
Widespread reaction and celebration of loyalty
The photos documenting the meeting didn't go unnoticed; they ignited a wave of nostalgia and appreciation across social media platforms. Fahad Al-Dosari, Secretary-General of the Friends of Football Players Charitable Association, aptly described the scene: "A visit of love and reassurance… loyalty is present… Get well soon, legend." As observers noted, Abduljawad, who is beginning his physical recovery, received a tremendous morale boost from this visit, emphasizing that the history of Saudi football is not only preserved in the annals of championships, but also in the hearts and homes of those who shaped it.
