Egyptian giants Al Ahly have boycotted their crunch encounter against Zamalek SC in the Egyptian Premier League this evening.
The African football powerhouse had earlier given the indication that they will boycott the game if foreign referees are not assigned to handle the match.
With just 30 minutes to kick-off at the Cairo International Stadium, there was no sign of Al Ahly at the venue. Instead, the team was reportedly holding a regular training session in Nasr City.
READ MORE: Al Ahly will take on Zamalek if the referee is a foreigner
The boycott casts uncertainty over the outcome of the match and could affect the Egyptian Premier League and its calendar.
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) will have to decide on the boycott. As things stand, three points could be awarded to Zamalek or a new date will be announced for the game should EFA bow to the demands of Al Ahly.