Ahmed El Gharhy plays down clash with Zamalek coach after الاهلي win

Ahmed El Gharhy has described his on-court argument with Zamalek head coach Mohamed Selim “Soly” as a brief exchange that was settled immediately after الاهلي’s 89-77 victory in the Egyptian Men’s Basketball Linked League.

The الاهلي assistant coach and Selim were involved in a confrontation during the quarter-final meeting at الاهلي’s gym in the club’s الجزيرة headquarters. The incident resulted in a technical foul being given to both benches.

Both coaches were then ejected between the first and second halves, with Linus Gavriel sent off for الاهلي and Selim dismissed for Zamalek.

El Gharhy later addressed the incident on his personal account, writing: “Mohamed Selim is my dear friend, my brother and someone I have shared many years with.”

He added: “It was just frustration on the court and it passed. I would never let him leave the court upset.”

El Gharhy ended his message by saying: “I hope people with unhealthy intentions stay away from the scene.”

The match was the first meeting between الاهلي and Zamalek in the current season, with الاهلي eventually overturning an early deficit to claim victory.

Zamalek made the stronger start and led 32-15 at the end of the opening quarter. الاهلي reduced the gap before half-time, although Zamalek still held a 49-40 advantage at the interval.

The comeback continued after the break, as الاهلي moved in front 69-63 by the end of the third quarter.

Amr El Gendy then produced a decisive performance in the final period, scoring several three-pointers as الاهلي extended its lead and secured the win.

The two teams are scheduled to meet again in the third round of the competition on Friday, 6 November, at Zamalek’s gym.

Earlier on the same day, الاهلي’s youth basketball team also recorded a comprehensive victory over Zamalek, winning 99-28 in the match played before the men’s fixture.