The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced Al-Ahly as the recipient of the Best Club in Africa award, edging out rivals Zamalek and Mamelodi Sundowns.
The decision comes after a report detailed the reasons behind the club’s recognition, with Al-Ahly’s success in the African Champions League seen as the key factor.
A broadcast on “On Time Sports 2” revealed the reasoning behind the award, citing that Al-Ahly’s victory in the prestigious CAF Champions League was pivotal in securing their place as Africa’s top club.
The report stated that the Champions League, as the continent’s most significant competition, played a major role in the decision.
Al-Ahly’s triumph in the competition was considered the deciding achievement when compared to the other contenders’ successes.
In contrast, the Confederation Cup, won by Zamalek, was deemed a lesser tournament.
While significant, it does not carry the same weight as the Champions League in CAF’s evaluation.
Additionally, the African Super Cup, which is awarded following the Champions League and Confederation Cup winners’ encounter, was seen as an honorary title, given its single-match format.
Furthermore, CAF’s decision to exclude Mamelodi Sundowns was influenced by their early exit from the semi-finals of the African Champions League during the previous edition.
Despite Sundowns’ strong performances in domestic and continental competitions, their failure to progress further in the prestigious Champions League ultimately worked against them in the award race.
The CAF Best Club in Africa award is one of the most coveted recognitions in African football, reflecting the club’s excellence not only in domestic leagues but also in continental tournaments.
Al-Ahly’s achievement solidifies their legacy as one of the continent’s most successful clubs, further cementing their dominance in African football.
With the CAF award now behind them, Al-Ahly continues to be a major force in both Egyptian and African football, with their success on the continental stage earning them a place among Africa’s elite clubs.