Mahmoud Hamada clarifies celebration after Al Masry victory over Al Mokawloon Al Arab

Mahmoud Hamada has said his celebration after scoring in Al Masry’s 3-2 victory over Al Mokawloon Al Arab was not directed at the club’s supporters.

The midfielder found the net as Al Masry came from behind to claim victory in the second round of the Egyptian Premier League. Hamada’s goal was followed by strikes from Hussein Faisal and Mohamed El Shamy, while Idrissa Thiam and Omar Kamal Abdel Wahid scored for Al Mokawloon Al Arab.

Speaking to On Sport, Hamada said the team had gone into the match determined to win and had recovered from falling behind before half-time.

“We entered the match with the aim of winning, and before the end of the first half we equalised despite falling behind in the score,” he said.

“We scored two goals in the second half, achieved the victory and dedicate this win to everyone, whether the management, the technical staff or the fans.”

Hamada also addressed the meaning of his goal celebration, insisting it was not intended as a criticism of the supporters.

“My celebration was not directed at the fans. They are our main source of support and they are held in the highest regard by us,” he said.

The midfielder thanked Al Masry’s supporters for their backing and called for larger attendances during the remainder of the campaign.

“I thank Al Masry’s fans for their support and hope for an increase in the number of supporters attending. We are at the beginning of the season, and the results and performance will improve in the future,” he added.

The result lifted Al Masry into second place in the league table, level on six points with Pyramids but ahead on goal difference.

For Al Mokawloon Al Arab, the defeat was their second of the season. They remain 18th and are yet to collect a point.

Al Masry’s win was their first against Al Mokawloon Al Arab since 2024. The two sides had drawn their previous two meetings.

Al Masry will face Pyramids in a high-profile meeting on Monday in the third round of the Egyptian Premier League.