Al Ahly’s preparations for their crucial CAF Champions League clash against CR Belouizdad on Friday have been disrupted by the injury of captain and veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
The 36-year-old shot-stopper was notably absent from Al Ahly’s recent goalless draw against ENPPI in the Egyptian Premier League on Monday. His absence has raised concerns as the team gears up for a challenging away fixture in Algeria.
Head coach Marcel Koller confirmed the situation, explaining that El Shenawy had been given a “negative rest” to prioritize recovery.
In his place, Mostafa Shobeir was handed the opportunity to start in goal.
“El Shenawy got a negative rest so that Mostafa Shobeir can gain the sensitivity of the matches,” Koller stated on the club’s official website, highlighting the decision to balance the team’s immediate needs with player management.
El Shenawy, who serves as Egypt’s first-choice goalkeeper, has been instrumental for Al Ahly this season, featuring in four Egyptian Premier League matches and securing two clean sheets.
His experience and leadership have been central to the club’s domestic and continental success.
The seasoned keeper boasts an impressive record, having won four CAF Champions League titles and seven Egyptian Premier League trophies during his tenure with Al Ahly.
His absence for the pivotal clash against CR Belouizdad represents a significant challenge for the Cairo-based giants as they aim to secure an advantage in the competition.
With Mostafa Shobeir stepping up in El Shenawy’s absence, the 23-year-old faces a high-pressure test as Al Ahly seeks to maintain its dominance on the African stage.
The young goalkeeper’s performance in the upcoming match will be closely scrutinized as fans and analysts alike anticipate how the team adapts to this unexpected blow.
Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, will need to rally around their squad depth and tactical prowess to navigate this challenge
. Friday’s showdown in Algeria promises to be a critical test of the team’s resilience and adaptability in their pursuit of another CAF Champions League triumph.
