Closed training camp and squad clarity emerge ahead of crucial league playoff clash
Al Ahly SC are intensifying preparations for their upcoming league playoff encounter against Smouha SC, with the Cairo side entering a closed training camp on Friday evening ahead of Saturday’s fixture.
The match, part of the second round of the league championship playoffs, carries added importance for Al Ahly after a setback in their opening game. The defending side were held to a 1-1 draw by Ceramica Cleopatra FC at the Arab Contractors Stadium, a result that has increased pressure on the team’s campaign.
No rest as focus intensifies after opening draw
Determined to respond quickly, head coach Jess Torup opted against granting his players time off following the draw. Instead, the squad resumed training immediately at the Mokhtar El-Tetsh Stadium.
Sessions have been conducted under strict privacy, with club officials enforcing a closed environment in an effort to maintain focus and avoid distractions during a critical phase of the season.
Senior club figure Sayed Abdel Hafeez has been a regular presence at training, attending sessions on a daily basis to provide encouragement and oversight as the team prepares for the decisive fixture.
Injury updates offer boost with key return
In a positive development for the coaching staff, the club’s medical team has confirmed that the majority of players are fit and available for selection. Midfielder Ahmed Nabil Kouka has returned to full training after previously experiencing discomfort related to a hamstring issue.
Kouka had been withdrawn from contention ahead of the match against Ceramica Cleopatra as a precautionary measure to avoid worsening the injury. His recovery now provides an additional option in midfield as Al Ahly look to strengthen their lineup.
However, the squad will still be without Karim Fouad, who remains sidelined through injury.
Suspension forces goalkeeping reshuffle
Further complicating team selection is the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who is serving a four-match suspension imposed by the Egyptian Professional Clubs Association. The ban follows an incident in the previous match against Ceramica Cleopatra, where he was penalised for attempting to assault the referee.
His unavailability is expected to open the door for goalkeepers Hamza Alaa and Mohamed Siha, who could both feature as part of the squad for the first time together in recent weeks.
Selection decisions rest with coaching staff
A source within the club indicated that, aside from the confirmed absences of Fouad and El Shenawy, all other players are fit and ready for selection. Any further exclusions from the matchday squad, the source added, will be based purely on tactical considerations determined by the coaching staff.
Conclusion: High stakes as Al Ahly seek response
With limited margin for error following their opening draw, Al Ahly approach the Smouha clash knowing that a strong performance is essential to keep their title ambitions on track. The return of key players offers encouragement, but suspensions and injuries continue to test squad depth.
As the team enters a closed camp and final preparations conclude, attention now turns to whether Al Ahly can deliver the response required in a match that could shape the trajectory of their playoff campaign.
