Al Ahly vs Pyramids: Egypt FA considers South American referees for key league match

The Egyptian Football Association’s Referees Committee is considering South American officials as it searches for a foreign refereeing team to oversee the highly anticipated Egyptian Premier League clash between Al Ahly and Pyramids FC on November 23.

According to reports in Egypt, the committee is exploring the possibility of appointing an experienced Latin American referee with international credentials, including participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, amid difficulties in securing some of Europe’s top officials due to their commitments to continental competitions.

Al Ahly had previously requested foreign referees for the fixture, with the club reportedly seeking an official from one of Europe’s top five leagues.

However, the challenges surrounding the availability of prominent European referees have prompted the committee to consider alternative options, with South America emerging as a possible destination for its search.

Several high-profile officials could theoretically be considered, including Argentina’s Facundo Tello and Dario Herrera, Brazil’s Raphael Claus and Wilton Sampaio, and Venezuela’s Jesús Valenzuela.

Other names mentioned among the potential options include Argentina’s Yael Falcón Pérez, Brazil’s Ramón Abatti, Chile’s Cristian Garay, Peru’s Kevin Ortega and Uruguay’s Gustavo Tejera.

These officials have varying levels of international experience, making them possible names to examine as the committee evaluates candidates capable of handling a fixture of such importance.

Tello, Claus, Sampaio and Valenzuela stand out among the names highlighted in the report because of their experience officiating major international matches.

Nevertheless, the list represents theoretical possibilities rather than confirmed nominations, and there has been no official announcement identifying the referee who will take charge of the encounter.

The Referees Committee is expected to continue assessing the available options before making its final decision, with the priority being to appoint an experienced team capable of managing the pressure surrounding the contest.

The November 23 meeting between Al Ahly and Pyramids is expected to attract considerable attention, given the ambitions of both clubs in the Egyptian Premier League. The eventual appointment will therefore be closely watched as preparations continue for the showdown.