Al Ahly's response to the Royal Army's complaint: details of the crisis and CAF's decision
Al Ahly SC of Egypt issued a decisive official statement in response to the complaint filed by Moroccan club FAR Rabat with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding the events that occurred during their recent match at Cairo International Stadium, the final game of the CAF Champions League group stage. This move reflects Al Ahly's commitment to clarifying the facts fully for the public and the continental disciplinary committees.
Match details and group standings
The match was a highly competitive affair between the two giants, ending in a 0-0 draw, a result that secured both teams' passage to the quarterfinals. Al Ahly topped the group with 10 points, while FAR Rabat finished second with 9 points. Despite the qualification, the atmosphere was tense, with the Moroccan side filing a complaint accusing Al Ahly fans of throwing water bottles during the match.
Al-Ahly reveals the truth: the events of the first leg in Rabat
In its official response, Al Ahly Club affirmed its full respect for the right of its sister clubs to take whatever legal action they deem appropriate. However, it surprised many by highlighting the attacks its delegation endured during the first leg match held on November 28, 2025, in Rabat. The statement explained that Al Ahly players were subjected to clear assaults involving the throwing of sharp objects, incidents documented with audio and video recordings via television broadcasts and private videos.
The club indicated that it chose at the time not to file an official complaint, contenting itself with directing verbal remarks to CAF officials, in order to prioritize the higher interest and preserve the historical and good relations that unite the Egyptian and Moroccan peoples, and to avoid increasing tension between the fans.
Behind the scenes of the Cairo Stadium events and the fans' provocations
Regarding the events of the second leg match in Cairo, Al Ahly presented its version of events, supported by evidence, explaining that the tension began when some Raja Casablanca fans attempted to storm the stands designated for Al Ahly supporters. Egyptian security forces intervened firmly to prevent a clash, but this action provoked some Al Ahly fans, leading them to retaliate by throwing water bottles onto the track – an act the club promptly rejected and condemned, based on its deeply held principles of sportsmanship.
Historical relations and the expected role of CAF
Al Ahly concluded its statement by affirming its excellent hospitality towards the Royal Army Club delegation in Cairo, befitting Egypt's stature and the value of Al Ahly Club. The club emphasized that relations with their Moroccan brothers will remain strong and unwavering, and will not be affected by any passing incidents. Al Ahly submitted all evidence and video footage to the CAF Disciplinary Committee, asserting that the actions of its fans were an unprecedented and exceptional reaction, resulting from clear provocations.
For its part, the Arab sports community is awaiting the decision of the CAF Disciplinary Committee, which has received the files of both parties for investigation, amid expectations of disciplinary sanctions that may affect both sides in accordance with the regulations of the tournament, with an emphasis on the need for restraint in purely Arab encounters.
