The CAF (Confederation of African Football) is once again facing challenges regarding a meeting involving an Egyptian team. Following the difficulties in organizing the Al Ahly-Zamalek clash last week, a similar scenario is unfolding for the upcoming match on August 4 between Al Ahly and South African side Orlando Pirates for the second day of the group stage.
Al Ahly had requested a postponement of the match from CAF to avoid conflicting with the Ramadan fast. However, this request was ultimately rejected by the continental body. The club announced the refusal on their official website, stating, “The management received the refusal letter from CAF on Monday.” Sayed Abdel Hafiz, the club’s sporting director, explained, “Our players refused to break their fast when they played Zamalek in the afternoon last week and are still suffering from it.” The Al Ahly-Zamalek match ended in a 1-1 draw.
It’s worth noting that Muslim law allows practitioners to break their fast during the Muslim fasting period, but many footballers choose not to. Al Ahly is not only contending with this concern but is also searching for a stadium to host the Orlando Pirates, who secured a 0-0 draw against Congolese side AC Léopards in their previous match.
