CAF Champions League: El Shenawy confronts Shobeir after Al Ahly’s defeat to Esperance

Al Ahly captain Mohamed El Shenawy was involved in a tense moment with teammate Mostafa Shobeir following the final whistle of their clash against Esperance in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-final.

As the match came to an end, television cameras captured El Shenawy quickly approaching Shobeir after Senegalese referee Issa Sy signalled full time. The experienced goalkeeper appeared visibly upset with the young shot stopper’s actions moments after the game.

Shobeir, who started in goal for the Egyptian giants, had attempted to approach the refereeing team to protest several controversial decisions made during the encounter. However, El Shenawy intervened before the situation could escalate.

The Al Ahly captain reacted in an attempt to prevent his teammate from confronting the officials in a way that could result in disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football. With tensions high and a crucial second leg approaching, El Shenawy was keen to ensure that no player risked receiving cards or administrative sanctions.

Eyewitness footage suggested that El Shenawy’s tone was firm as he urged Shobeir to head straight to the dressing room and avoid any interaction with the match officials.

The officiating had already sparked debate during the game after the referee awarded a penalty to Esperance, a decision strongly disputed by Al Ahly players. Esperance defender Mohamed Amine Tougai converted the spot kick, which ultimately proved decisive as the Tunisian side secured a 1-0 victory.

Both teams are scheduled to meet next Saturday again at Cairo Stadium for the second leg of the quarter-final. The return fixture will be played without supporters after a sanction was imposed on the Egyptian club.