Egypt Remembers Mahmoud El Gohary, a True Legend of African Football
Egyptian football is paying heartfelt tribute to one of its most iconic figures, Mahmoud El Gohary, on the third anniversary of his passing. A revered tactician and former player, Gohary remains a symbol of national pride and continental success.
Gohary, who passed away in 2012, was posthumously honoured with the Legend Award at the 2012 GLO CAF Awards, a fitting recognition for a man who left an indelible mark on African football.
During a distinguished career that spanned decades, Gohary reached the pinnacle of African football both on and off the pitch. As a player, he was part of the Egyptian national team that won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 1959. Decades later, he repeated the feat as a manager, guiding the Pharaohs to AFCON glory in 1998 in Burkina Faso.
That triumph etched his name in history as the first person to win the Africa Cup of Nations as both a player and a coach. It was a rare achievement later matched by Nigeria’s Stephen Keshi, who lifted the trophy as a player in 1994 and as a coach in 2013.
Gohary also left his mark at club level. He steered Egyptian giants Zamalek SC to titles in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Super Cup, and later guided their fiercest rivals Al Ahly SC to success in the CAF Champions League as well. His ability to inspire and manage rival clubs with equal success further underlined his tactical brilliance and respected status in Egyptian football.
His influence extended beyond silverware. Gohary was widely admired for his leadership, his commitment to nurturing talent, and his calm authority on the touchline. He was a father figure to many players and a proud ambassador for Egyptian football on the international stage.
On this day of remembrance, tributes have poured in from fans, clubs, and former players across the country and continent, all honouring the memory of a coach who not only brought titles to Egypt but also helped shape the future of African football.
Mahmoud El Gohary’s legacy endures — in the trophy cabinets he helped fill, in the players he mentored, and in the hearts of millions who witnessed his greatness.
