Egyptian football association shifts strategy, announces referee teams 48 hours before matches

The Egyptian Football Association’s Referees Committee has decided to disclose the referee teams for Nile League matches 48 hours before each game.

This marks a departure from previous practice, where referee assignments were typically revealed within 24 hours of kick-off.

The announcement was confirmed by the committee yesterday, with details of referee teams now available for matches scheduled on Thursday and Friday.

This proactive approach, aimed at enhancing transparency, reflects the committee’s evolving response to recent events and feedback from both teams and supporters.

Historically, referee announcements had been delayed until the day before each match.

However, the new timeline, implemented by Egypt’s main refereeing body, aligns with international best practices, giving teams and fans a clearer view of officiating line-ups in advance.

This strategic adjustment is viewed as part of broader efforts to mitigate controversies that have occasionally arisen over last-minute referee changes.

Notably, referees Mohamed Adel and Mido Salama have been excluded from upcoming assignments due to their involvement in a recent dispute during a match between Zamalek and National Bank.

For Thursday’s match between Al-Ahly and Zad, the officiating team will be led by Mahmoud Naji, supported by assistant referees Ahmed Tawfiq Talab and Hani Khairy.

The fourth official is Muhammad Al-Ghazi, while Mahmoud Al-Banna and Mahmoud Abdel Samie will oversee Video Assistant Referee (VAR) operations.

Meanwhile, for Friday’s match, referee Tariq Magdy will take charge, with Ahmed Hossam Taha and Emad Akkad as assistant referees.

Walid Abdel Razek will act as the fourth official, and Amr El-Shenawy, along with Mohamed Mahmoud Lotfy, will manage the VAR responsibilities.

The shift to advance notifications of referee assignments is expected to improve clarity and foster greater trust between officials, teams, and the Egyptian footballing public as the Nile League progresses.