In an explosive turn of events following Al Ahly’s elimination from the CAF Champions League, the Egyptian giants are bracing for disciplinary action from CAF.
Moments after Mauritanian referee Dahane Beida blew the final whistle, frustrated Al Ahly fans directed their ire at head coach Marcel Koller, match officials, and players, hurling water bottles in a chaotic scene that marred the aftermath of their loss to Mamelodi Sundowns at the Cairo International Stadium.
As the players and officials made their way to the exit tunnel, the hordes of Red Devils fans, as their supporters are known, voiced their dissatisfaction. It echoed through the stands as fans expressed their heartbreak and anger aggressively.
Their Cairo fortress, once charged with hope and excitement, transformed into a volatile mixture of discontent and frustration.
The defeat was a hammer blow for Al Ahly, a club synonymous with success in African football. However, the response from their supporters calls into question the notion of sportsmanship that has dogged the growth of football on the continent.
Such displays of poor sportsmanship, verbal abuse, and disrespect towards officials and opponents have marred the reputation of North African football fans.
Al Ahly fans’ raucous behaviour has been a recurring issue, and the club has often incurred the wrath of CAF’s Disciplinary Board. Numerous fines aimed at curtailing these disruptions have been issued; however, they have fallen short of instigating meaningful change.
Al Ahly’s supporters are renowned for their unwavering passion. However, their general attitude appears to be one where fervour for the game overshadows the fundamental tenets of sportsmanship and fair play. As this pattern continues, it threatens the integrity of not just Al Ahly but the broader landscape of African football.
The incident has sparked discussions about accountability among North Africa’s elite clubs and their devoted followings. While passion is an integral part of football culture, the actions of Al Ahly’s supporters raise concerns about how far fans will go in expressing their dissatisfaction. It serves as a disheartening reminder of the toxic side of football fandom that can surface even in moments of despair.
The countdown heats up 🔥 Just 50 days until Masandawana take on the world’s best in the USA 👆
Secure tickets here! 🎟️ https://t.co/pbmGG8yMgs#Sundowns #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/seKExjyBOs
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) April 28, 2025
Al Ahly may soon face severe penalties, including a potential stadium ban and the prospect of playing behind closed doors. CAF has increasingly taken a tough stance against clubs that breach its rules and regulations.
Their passionate supporters, known for their fervent backing, have often crossed the line, leading to violence at games. The devoted fanbase may face even stricter penalties, such as travel bans preventing them from attending away fixtures. Such implications would dampen the spirit of the team and could hinder their performance on the continental stage, as clubs typically thrive on the backing of their loyal supporters.
Hours after the match, Al Ahly officially parted ways with coach Koller, a decision that will come as a great relief to supporters who have been increasingly critical of the Swiss mentor.
The club now faces the task of selecting a suitable replacement who can bridge the gap between the fans’ expectations and the players’ performances. Former Bafana Bafana coach Carlos Queiroz is reportedly one of the candidates to replace Koller.
