Al Ahly winger Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet has broken his silence following his controversial penalty miss against Inter Miami in the FIFA Club World Cup opener.
The Egyptian powerhouse had to settle for a 0-0 draw against the Major League Soccer club on June 15. The results could have been different if Trezeguet had perfectly converted from the spot in the much-anticipated clash.
However, a conversation between an Egyptian journalist Saif Zaher and Trezeguet has revealed the behind-the-scenes details following the penalty miss.
“Trezeguet told us it wasn’t about selfishness. He felt he was the most ready, both physically and mentally, and believed it was the best decision for the team at that moment.” Zaher stated.
“Maybe the other players weren’t fully ready. I felt sharp, I felt in the zone — it seemed like the best chance to score and help the team,” Trezeguet reportedly told Zaher.
The incident drew attention after TV cameras captured a lengthy conversation between Trezeguet, Zizo, and Wessam Abou Ali just before the penalty. The club later confirmed that Abou Ali was the designated taker, followed by Zizo.
As a result of violating team rules, Trezeguet was fined 1 million Egyptian pounds, with the club stressing the importance of discipline during high-profile tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup.
Al Ahly has slim chance of progressing to the knockout stage of the competition, having failed to secure victory in their first two matches.
Currently, the African giants are bottom in Group A, securing just a point. They will take on Palmeiras in their third group game on Tuesday.
