Germany and Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaus praised Al Ahly and their fans ahead of their Intercontinental Cup match against Al Ain.
Speaking in an interview with Abu Dhabi Sports TV, the former Ballon d’Or and World Cup winner expressed admiration for the atmosphere in the stadium by Al Ahly’s supporters: “I love seeing this mentality from the fans. Two or three hours before the game, they arrive and start chanting.
“The fans come to watch the players warm up on the field. This is undoubtedly a special match and a significant tournament. When you witness the sight of these fans, it’s truly impressive.”
The Bayern legend shared an old memory with Al Ahly, a friendly match he played against them four decades ago. Speaking about the memory, Matthaus remarked: “I’m thrilled to be back at the Cairo International Stadium.
“I played here 40 years ago in a friendly between Bayern Munich and Al Ahly, and those memories are unforgettable.”
Matthäus drew a comparison between Al Ahly and Europe’s elite clubs: “When you talk about 44 championships and multiple CAF Champions League titles, you’re talking about Al Ahly.
“They’re like Bayern Munich in Germany or Real Madrid in Spain. And Al Ain as well, both clubs have left a lasting legacy.
“Looking at these clubs, the fans, and the early enthusiasm, you realize the importance of such matches.”
It’s worth noting that Matthaus scored Bayern Munich’s winning goal in the 1984 friendly, which ended 2-1 in favor of the German club at Cairo International Stadium.