Hakan Ünsal

Turkish left wingback known for his rocket left foot and World Cup third place.

via Wikipedia: Vedat Muriqi · see source

Hakan Ünsal (born 14 May 1973) is a Turkish former professional footballer who played as a left wingback. He achieved third place at the 2002 FIFA World Cup with the Turkey national team.

Lore & Background

Hakan Ünsal is remembered for his rocket left foot, pinpoint passing, and ambition. He played most of his career at Galatasaray after joining from Karabükspor in 1993–94. After winning the UEFA Cup in 2000 with Galatasaray, he moved to Blackburn Rovers in January 2002. A work permit delayed his debut, causing him to miss the 2002 League Cup Final. He returned to Galatasaray for the 2002–03 season and left after 2004–05, then had a brief stint with Çaykur Rizespor before retiring. He is famous for an incident at the 2002 World Cup where he kicked the ball at Rivaldo, who feigned a facial injury, leading to Ünsal's red card. He is also remembered for his high level of sportsmanship.

Did You Know?

Hakan Ünsal was sent off in a 2002 World Cup match after kicking the ball at Rivaldo, who dramatically fell holding his face.
He won the UEFA Cup with Galatasaray in 1999–2000.