Egyptian international goalkeeper Essam El Hadary was hospitalized in Sudan after being attacked by unidentified assailants. This incident occurred following an attack on the Al Merreikh club bus during the CAF Confederations Cup derby against Al Shandy. In the match, Al Merreikh emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Al Shandy on the third day of the group stage, with goals scored by Nigerian Kelechi Osunwa and Ahmed Al Basha.
After the game, unidentified supporters assaulted Al Merreikh’s bus on its way back to the hotel, resulting in injuries to several players, with goalkeeper Essam El Hadary suffering the most severe damage. Sudanese television confirmed, “El Hadary has a damaged jaw and teeth.” The goalkeeper, originally set to return to Cairo to prepare for Egypt’s friendly matches against Benin and Cameroon, is now hospitalized. His participation in these matches with Bob Bradley’s team is uncertain.
Despite the unfortunate incident, Al Merreikh maintains its lead in Group A with 7 points, ahead of Al Hilal with 4 points. Alhi Shandy holds the third position with 3 points, while Interclub is at the bottom with zero points.
