Egyptian champions Al Ahly, set to compete in this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, refused to appear for their scheduled Egyptian Premier League match against arch-rivals Zamalek on Tuesday, insisting on the appointment of foreign referees.
The highly anticipated clash was set to kick off at 9:30 pm (1930 GMT) at Cairo Stadium, but instead of heading to the venue, Al Ahly’s team bus diverted to their own training ground for a practice session, according to local reports.
Earlier, the club’s board of directors had made it clear they would not participate unless officiating was handled by foreign referees, citing ongoing issues with domestic refereeing standards. They accused Egyptian football authorities of creating a state of “chaos” and mismanagement, leading to frequent crises for clubs.
Threatening to withdraw from the league in protest, Al Ahly slammed the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and the league organizers for what they described as a lack of coordination and transparency. Despite their demands, the EFA refused to bring in foreign referees, citing time constraints.
Currently second in the league, Al Ahly has vowed not to play the match until the EFA meets their request.
The club, led by Swiss coach Marcel Koller, boasts a record 12 African Champions League titles. They are set to represent Africa in the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where they will open their campaign against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami on June 14.
