Club chairman defends team integrity after Al Ahly draw
Mohamed Abou El-Enein, chairman of Ceramica Cleopatra FC, has dismissed speculation that his side deliberately underperforms in matches, insisting the club competes with integrity regardless of the opponent.
His remarks come in the wake of a 1-1 draw with Al Ahly SC in the league’s decisive stage, a match that sparked debate over officiating decisions and renewed scrutiny over Ceramica’s performances against top teams.
Speaking in televised comments, Abou El-Enein strongly denied recent rumours suggesting his side had intentionally influenced results.
“I have said before that I am an Ahly fan and a lover of Ahly, but my team plays with honor and its goal is always to achieve victory, even if it is against Ahly.”
He added: “There is no reality of those rumors circulating about throwing matches, as this is not logical in football.”
Disputed penalty call dominates discussion
A key talking point from the match was a late penalty appeal by Al Ahly, which was ultimately not awarded after review by the referee.
Abou El-Enein weighed in on the incident, backing the official’s decision to reject the appeal.
“The ball that is the subject of much discussion is not a penalty kick for Al-Ahly, because it touched the player’s body and then his hand, and then the referee went to look at the video technology and did not award it.”
The decision, made by referee Mahmoud Wafa following a video review, came in stoppage time after the ball appeared to strike Ahmed Hani inside the penalty area.
Firm stance on coaching future
Beyond the match itself, Abou El-Enein also addressed speculation regarding the future of Ceramica’s head coach Ali Maher.
Reports had suggested the coach could be a target for Al Ahly, but the Ceramica chairman made clear that the club has no intention of allowing him to leave.
“We will not let Ali Maher go, and he will continue with us.”
Respectful ties with rivals
Despite his acknowledged support for Al Ahly, Abou El-Enein emphasised that his relationships across Egyptian football remain respectful, including with rivals Zamalek SC.
“I respect and appreciate Zamalek and its fans, and my relationship with everyone is based on respect, and this was clearly evident when Mortada Mansour was president of the White Castle.”
He further indicated a willingness to cooperate with other clubs where appropriate.
“I am an Ahly fan of course, but my relationship with everyone is respectful, and I will not hesitate to help Zamalek if they request to sign any player in the next phase, because that is part of football.”
Match context and standings
The draw leaves Al Ahly on 41 points, while Ceramica Cleopatra move to 39, keeping both sides closely placed in the league standings. The encounter, played on Tuesday evening, marked the opening round of the competition’s decisive phase.
Focus shifts back to competition
While debate over refereeing decisions and off-field speculation continues, Abou El-Enein’s comments underline a broader message of competitive integrity. With the league entering a critical stage, attention is expected to return to performances on the pitch as teams pursue their objectives in a tightly contested campaign.
