Egyptian FA approves Zamalek request for foreign referees ahead of title-deciding clash

The Egyptian Football Association has approved the request submitted by Zamalek SC for a foreign refereeing team to officiate their crucial upcoming league encounter against Ceramica Cleopatra FC.

The highly anticipated fixture, which forms part of the seventh round of the championship phase in the Egyptian Premier League, is scheduled to take place on May 20 at Cairo International Stadium.

In an official statement, the Egyptian FA confirmed that the referees committee, headed by Colombian official Oscar Ruiz, has already begun coordinating with several European and Arab football federations to appoint an international refereeing crew for the decisive match.

The federation explained that the process falls within league regulations that permit clubs to request foreign referees for sensitive fixtures, provided the requesting club covers the associated costs.

The decision reportedly came after Zamalek pushed for what they believe would be the highest level of refereeing neutrality in a match that could determine the destination of the league title this season.

Zamalek currently lead the standings with 53 points, while Pyramids FC sit second with 51 points. Al Ahly SC occupy third place on 50 points, with Ceramica Cleopatra fourth on 44 points in the championship group standings.

The White Knights need just one point from the clash against Ceramica Cleopatra to officially secure the league title, regardless of results elsewhere, making them overwhelming favourites to lift the trophy.

The seventh-round fixtures were also rescheduled from May 15 to May 20 in order to accommodate Zamalek’s participation in the CAF Confederation Cup Final.

The Egyptian Football Association is expected to reveal the identity of the appointed foreign refereeing team in the coming days once official communications with the relevant federations are completed and approved by the referees committee.