Al Ahly’s upcoming CAF Champions League semi-final first leg against Mamelodi Sundowns has sparked debate over team selection, with former Egypt international Ahmed Shobeir urging head coach Marcel Koller to avoid what he calls a “suicidal” move.
The Cairo giants are set to face South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, April 19, at 13:00 GMT, in a fixture that could define their continental campaign.
With a place in the final at stake, Koller’s decisions over personnel are under intense scrutiny — particularly at left-back.
Shobeir, now a prominent football analyst, believes the decision in that position could be pivotal.
Speaking ahead of the match, the former Al Ahly and Egypt goalkeeper issued a stark warning about the potential inclusion of Tunisian veteran Ali Maâloul.
“Ahmed Nabil Kouka is 100% fit. He is the prime candidate for the left-back position against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Bringing in Maâloul would be suicide in this match,” Shobeir said bluntly in a televised interview.
Maâloul, long regarded as one of Africa’s most accomplished full-backs, has recently returned from injury and is yet to regain full match sharpness.
While his attacking prowess and experience in high-pressure encounters are well known, Shobeir argues that fielding him in a game of this magnitude, with fitness concerns lingering, would carry significant risks.
Al Ahly’s path to the semi-finals has once again showcased their pedigree in African football.
The ten-time CAF Champions League winners are aiming to reach yet another final, but they must first navigate a formidable opponent in Sundowns — a team they know well from recent campaigns.
Mamelodi Sundowns, champions in 2016, have been among the most consistent sides in the competition in recent years, combining tactical discipline with flair.
They present a well-balanced challenge that demands both defensive solidity and quick transitions from the Egyptian side.
In this context, Shobeir’s comments highlight the fine margins that could determine the outcome.
While Kouka offers youthful energy and fitness, Maâloul’s experience might be tempting for Koller, despite the concerns.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, all eyes will be on Koller’s starting eleven and whether the veteran coach will heed Shobeir’s advice or place his faith in one of Al Ahly’s most seasoned campaigners.
