Egypt goalkeeper El Shenawy handed four-match ban after referee incident

Mohamed El Shenawy has been suspended for four matches in the Egyptian Premier League following an incident involving a match official during Al Ahly SC’s recent draw with Ceramica Cleopatra.

The sanction was imposed after the goalkeeper was accused of striking an official in the aftermath of the 1-1 match played on 4 April.

The disciplinary decision was confirmed by the Egyptian Professional Clubs Association, which also issued a financial penalty against the player.

In addition to the four-game suspension, El Shenawy has been fined 50,000 Egyptian pounds. A further 2,500 pounds was added as a result of two yellow cards he received during the same encounter.

The incident is reported to have occurred shortly after the final whistle, with the altercation involving referee Mahmoud Wafa.

The disagreement is understood to have centred on a penalty decision during the match, which ended in a draw.

El Shenawy’s absence represents a significant setback for Al Ahly at a crucial stage of the season.

The club, reigning champions of the Egyptian Premier League, are entering the final phase of the campaign, where consistency and experience are expected to be decisive.

The 37-year-old goalkeeper has been a key figure for both club and country, making the suspension particularly impactful for Al Ahly as they navigate a demanding schedule.

The disciplinary action underlines the strict approach taken by authorities regarding conduct towards match officials.

With the league approaching its decisive period, the focus will now shift to how Al Ahly respond in the absence of one of their most experienced players.