Al Ahly and Zamalek face fresh Champions League tension

A fresh club battle is brewing in Egypt after Ahmed Shobier claimed Al Ahly are preparing a legal file that could block Zamalek’s place in next season’s CAF Champions League.

The dispute comes just days after Zamalek sealed the Egyptian Premier League title, beating Ceramica Cleopatra 1-0 to claim their 15th league crown and first since 2022.

According to Shobier, Al Ahly want to challenge Zamalek’s eligibility by examining the club’s debts, international cases and licensing status. He said Al Ahly are determined to make sure the rules are followed properly before any African license is approved.

Shobier added that the Egyptian Football Association cannot grant Zamalek a continental license until all cases are settled and backed by official documents. The comments have intensified an already heated rivalry between the country’s biggest clubs, with the issue now extending beyond the pitch and into the legal and administrative arena.

Zamalek are set to play in the Champions League next season alongside Pyramids, while Al Ahly will feature in the CAF Confederation Cup.