Tensions between Al Ahly and the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) are escalating following the abandoned Cairo derby.

The Cairo derby is always the most anticipated match of the season. Infamous for the intense rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek, spanning decades. The second leg of derby in the Egyptian Premier League was scheduled for March 11th, but was abandoned due to controversial circumstances, leading to a walkover victory for the White Knights and causing significant frustration among players, fans, and club officials alike.

Here’s a full breakdown of the latest developments in the saga surrounding:

Al Ahly’s Stand-Off Over Refereeing Controversy

The Red Devils had refused to show up for their scheduled derby against Zamalek on Tuesday, leading Egyptian referee Mahmoud Bassiouni to officially call off the game after 20 minutes. The club has since maintained that it will not complete the league season unless its demand for foreign referees in such high-profile matches is met.

Despite Al Ahly’s firm stance, discussions remain open, and the club has reportedly hinted at the possibility of reconsidering its position if a satisfactory compromise is reached. In the mean time, Al Ahly has committed to refunding ticket holders who had purchased seats for the abandoned fixture and has tasked its executive administration with coordinating the process through the ticketing platform “Tazkarti.”

Al Ahly Lodges Official Complaint

On Saturday morning, Al Ahly officially lodged a complaint with the Egyptian Olympic Committee against both the EFA and the Egyptian Premier League. The club argues that the decision to assign Egyptian referees to officiate the derby violated previous agreements, as the EFA had assured that the game would be overseen by a foreign refereeing team.

The club’s board remains in a continuous session, closely monitoring developments. Discussions between Al Ahly’s president and high-ranking sports officials are ongoing, with the aim of diffusing tensions and finding a resolution that could see the club return to league competition without major consequences.

Egyptian Olympic Committee Reviews Al Ahly’s Complaint

The Egyptian Olympic Committee has confirmed receipt of Al Ahly’s complaint and referred it to a specialized committee for review. The governing body has assured that a decision will be reached before the next round of league fixtures to ensure clarity on the situation.

EFA Rules in Favor of Zamalek, Sanctions Al Ahly

In response to the abandoned match, the EPL announced a series of disciplinary measures, officially awarding Zamalek a 3-0 victory in accordance with league regulations.

Additionally, Al Ahly has been handed a three-point deduction beyond the points lost from the forfeited match. The club is also required to compensate for financial losses incurred due to unfulfilled broadcasting contractual agreements and sponsorship obligations.

The league reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing regulations while awaiting the final verdict from the Olympic Committee on Al Ahly’s complaint.

Al Ahly Rejects Sanctions, Awaits Final Verdict

Following the EFA’s ruling, Al Ahly issued a formal response, categorically rejecting the league’s disciplinary measures. The club reiterated that it did not withdraw from the match but was instead forced into a difficult position due to the EFA’s failure to honor prior agreements.

Al Ahly’s board reaffirmed its commitment to the legal process, stating that it will abide by the Olympic Committee’s decision but will continue to push for accountability from the EFA. The club insists that it will not accept any consequences that do not align with what it views as fair and just treatment under league regulations.

Potential Consequences of League Withdrawal

If Al Ahly follows through on its threat to withdraw from the league, severe penalties could be imposed. According to Premier League and EFA regulations:

  • The club would be relegated to the second division for the following season and barred from re-entering the league for two years.
  • A fine of 20 million EGP would be imposed.
  • Al Ahly would be held financially responsible for lost revenue from sponsorship and broadcasting deals.
  • All previous league match results from the current phase of competition would be nullified.

All eyes will now turn to the Egyptian Olympic Committee for a decisive ruling that could reshape the course of the Egyptian Premier League season.