Cairo football giants Al Ahly and Zamalek have been shortlisted for the prestigious CAF Club of the Year award, following their outstanding performances in African competitions during the 2024 season. Both clubs showcased their dominance on the continental stage, earning them well-deserved recognition in a year marked by intense rivalries and historic achievements.
Al Ahly’s nomination comes as no surprise after their flawless campaign in the CAF Champions League.
The Red Devils were unstoppable throughout the competition, securing their record-extending 12th Champions League title without losing a single match.
Even more impressively, they conceded just one goal in the entire tournament, reinforcing their reputation as the strongest club side in African football.
Their commanding performances not only saw them lift the trophy but also maintain an aura of invincibility that has become synonymous with Al Ahly in African club football.
On the other side of the Cairo divide, Zamalek also enjoyed a successful season, clinching the CAF Confederation Cup title.
The White Knights demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline throughout the competition, with their standout moment coming in a dramatic African Super Cup final where they triumphed over none other than their local rivals, Al Ahly.
This victory solidified Zamalek’s place as one of the top clubs on the continent, earning them a spot among the elite in the CAF Club of the Year nominations.
In addition to the two Egyptian powerhouses, several other top African clubs have made the 10-team shortlist.
Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis, who reached the Champions League final, are among the contenders, alongside South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, a dominant force in the southern part of the continent.
Tanzanian clubs Young Africans and Simba FC also feature on the list, reflecting the growing strength of football in East Africa.
Ghana’s Dreams FC, Angola’s Petro Atlético, DR Congo’s TP Mazembe, and Morocco’s RS Berkane, who finished as runners-up in the Confederation Cup, complete the shortlist.
The inclusion of both Al Ahly and Zamalek underscores Egypt’s continued footballing supremacy in Africa, as the only country alongside Tanzania to have two clubs vying for the top club honor.
The fierce rivalry between these two historic clubs has not only captivated fans domestically but has also made a significant impact on the African football landscape.
The CAF Club of the Year award winner will be announced at the CAF Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place in Morocco on December 16, 2024.
This prestigious event will recognize the best teams and players in African football, celebrating their contributions to the game across the continent.
