Hussein El Shahat distances himself from controversy after Al Ahly win over Zamalek

The Cairo derby delivered its usual mix of drama and tension as Al Ahly defeated Zamalek 2-1 in the Egyptian Premier League.

The Reds had to come from behind at Cairo Stadium, with substitute Hussein El Shahat turning the game on its head in stunning fashion.

El Shahat entered after 69 minutes and immediately scored the equalizer. Just moments later, he won a penalty that teammate Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet converted, sealing the victory. His match-winning impact earned him the Man of the Match award and widespread praise from Al Ahly fans.

But the joy was clouded by a viral photo that appeared to show El Shahat making a gesture toward Zamalek’s Brazilian star Juan Alvina. Many supporters of the White Knights saw it as bullying. A source close to El Shahat told Kooora that “he knows nothing about the matter” and dismissed the claims as an attempt to spoil Al Ahly’s triumph.

The controversy added spice to a night where Al Ahly climbed to third on 15 points, just two behind leaders Zamalek.