Al Ahly’s recent clash with Baladiyat Al-Mahalla witnessed a wave of controversy that engulfed Taher Mohamed Taher, the winger of Al Ahly’s first-team squad, following his emotional display on the substitutes’ bench, where he was seen shedding tears while being comforted by teammate Emam Ashour.
The saga surrounding Taher’s experience during the match has sparked debates and speculation, prompting scrutiny into the decision-making processes within the team.
During the second half of the match, Taher was seen donning his playing shirt, evidently preparing to enter the field.
However, the pivotal moment turned sour as coach Koller opted to make substitutions, leaving Taher stranded on the sidelines despite his anticipation of joining the action.
The sequence of events unfolded dramatically, with Taher visibly moved and tears welling in his eyes as he watched the match from the bench, an image that was captured by the cameras and broadcast to viewers worldwide.
Emam Ashour, recognizing Taher’s distress, approached him with empathy, offering words of solace and affectionately embracing him, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans and spectators alike.
In response to the incident, Marcel Koller, the Swiss head coach of Al Ahly, addressed the matter during the team’s training session, emphasizing his prerogative to select the optimal lineup for each match based on tactical considerations and player performance.
Koller reiterated his commitment to making strategic decisions tailored to the evolving dynamics of the game, highlighting the fluid nature of football and the need for adaptability in team selection.
