Al Ahly Latest News: Disciplinary Appeals and Player Availability Updates

Al Ahly SC has officially launched a legal challenge against the Egyptian Football Association and the Egyptian Pro League to overturn a series of disciplinary sanctions imposed following a league match against Ceramica Cleopatra.

On April 11, 2026, the club submitted appeals to the Professional Clubs Association and the Appeals Committee of the Egyptian Football Association, seeking the full cancellation of penalties targeting both the club and its personnel.

Details of the Disciplinary Sanctions

The sanctions issued by the Competitions Committee include significant suspensions and financial penalties. The most severe penalty was directed at goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who received a four-match ban and a fine of 50,000 pounds.

football director Walid Salah El Din was handed a one-match ban and a 5,000-pound fine. The club itself was also hit with a financial penalty of 20,000 pounds.

Allegations of Referee Misconduct

Al Ahly’s appeal is based on claims of bias and misconduct by match official Mahmoud Wafa. The club has requested the annulment of the decisions, citing documented hostility from the referee during the match.

Beyond the appeal of the sanctions, Al Ahly has filed a separate formal complaint with the Disciplinary Committee. This complaint accuses Mahmoud Wafa of crossing professional boundaries through the use of inappropriate language and physical force.

The club specifically alleges that the official targeted several players, including Mohamed El Shenawy, Mahmoud Hassan (known as Trezeguet), and Hussein El Shahat. Al Ahly described these actions as a dangerous precedent for Egyptian football.

Impact and Context

This dispute marks an escalating crisis between Al Ahly and the refereeing authorities. The tension follows a match against Ceramica Cleopatra that was characterized by significant controversy.

The potential absence of key players and staff due to these suspensions could impact the team’s preparations for upcoming fixtures in the 2025/2026 Egyptian Premier League, including a highly anticipated match against Smouha.

The club’s move to involve both the Professional Clubs Association and the Appeals Committee underscores the seriousness with which they view the alleged verbal and physical abuse perpetrated by the match official.

Summary of Sanctions Under Appeal

• Mohamed El Shenawy: Four-match suspension and 50,000-pound fine.
• Walid Salah El Din: One-match ban and 5,000-pound fine.
• Al Ahly SC: 20,000-pound financial penalty.

The Egyptian Football Association has yet to announce whether it will uphold the appeal or maintain the original decisions issued by the Competitions Committee.