Al Ahly are preparing to request foreign refereeing teams for two of their biggest Egyptian Premier League fixtures this season, with the club set to face Zamalek and Pyramids in October and November.
The Cairo giants are expected to formally approach the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and ask for foreign officials to take charge of both high profile encounters.
Al Ahly have previously sought the appointment of foreign referees for major league matches, particularly those involving intense competition and significant pressure. The club’s latest move reflects its desire to ensure what it considers to be the highest possible refereeing standards for two crucial fixtures.
The clashes against Zamalek and Pyramids are expected to attract considerable attention given the stature of the three clubs and their ambitions in the Egyptian Premier League.
The Zamalek fixture will carry the traditional weight of the Cairo derby, while the meeting with Pyramids is also expected to be significant in the context of the title race.
Al Ahly’s request will now be considered by the Egyptian FA, which will have to determine whether foreign refereeing teams can be appointed for the two matches.
The club’s stance is likely to generate further discussion around refereeing in Egyptian football, particularly as domestic officials continue to come under scrutiny during important league fixtures.
