Ahly's fans (Photo: Abdel Hameed Eied)
The Egyptian Interior Ministry has approved holding Ahly’s match against Mali’s Stade Malian in a military stadium, but without the presence of fans.
“We really wanted the support of our beloved fans in the decisive home game, but we are committed to the security authorities' decision,” Ahly football director Sayed Abdel-Hafiz stated on the club’s official website.
Since 1 February, when the Port Said tragedy shocked Egyptian football, security concerns heightened about games held in stadiums with crowds in attendance amid continued unrest following the January 25 Revolution that forced out former president Hosni Mubarak.
The holders of six Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League trophies, Ahly, who were defeated 1-0 in Round 16 of the CAF Champions League away game, must win at home to secure their place in the quarterfinals.
The Reds, who were stranded in Mali for five days due to a coup that occurred in the country, have recieved the CAF's approval to postpone the Cairo match to 14 May instead of 12 May.
“What happened in Mali caused us to lose preparation time,” Abdel-Hafiz said, adding that they are planning to hold a friendly amid their preparations for the decisive home clash.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter: @AO Sports)
Short link: