NEW JERSEY/CAIRO – Al-Ahly head coach José Riveiro commended his team’s spirited performance in a thrilling 4-4 draw against Portuguese giants Porto, their final group-stage match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States.
Despite the entertaining contest, the result was not enough for the Red Devils to advance. The Egyptian giants concluded their group campaign with two points from draws against Inter Miami and Porto, and a loss to Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras. Porto also bowed out, while Palmeiras and Inter Miami progressed to the Round of 16.
“We played a good game against Porto,” Riveiro said. “We created several chances but couldn’t convert enough to seal the victory. Both teams were fatigued after a demanding contest, but overall, we showed our quality on the pitch.”
“Obviously, the results weren’t what we aimed for—we wanted to advance—but there was clear improvement,” he added according to the club’s official website.
Riveiro praised his players for their tactical discipline and fighting spirit, and was quick to acknowledge the passionate support from the stands.
“It felt like we were playing in Cairo. The support was incredible and gave the players an extra push during decisive moments. Al-Ahly fans were a true force,” the Spanish tactician added.
Following the match, the club’s official page thanked supporters for their loyalty throughout the tournament. Sharing images of the vibrant fan presence, Al-Ahly posted: “Thank you for your amazing support.”
Hat-trick hero
Forward Wessam Abou Ali, who scored a superb hat trick and was named Man of the Match, voiced disappointment at the team’s early exit.
“We played our hearts out,” said the Palestinian striker. “We had chances to win—not only against Porto but also against Inter Miami. In the end, small details made the difference.”
“Scoring three goals in a tournament of this stature is something I’m proud of, but I would’ve traded it all for qualification. I gave my best for the team and for our incredible fans.”
Abou Ali hailed the team’s composure against top-class opposition and underlined the value of the experience. “We stood our ground against a world-class side like Porto. We’ve proven we belong on the global stage.”
He also praised the supporters: “Our fans lit up the tournament. Their passion is an honor for any player. This was a learning experience, and we’ll carry it into the new season.”
Rest period
Following their elimination, Al-Ahly’s coaching staff granted the squad an 18-day rest period to recover from a packed schedule that saw no break between domestic commitments and Club World Cup preparations.
The players will return to begin pre-season training with eyes firmly set on domestic and continental competitions.
‘We gave everything’
Al-Ahly defender Mohamed Hani expressed disappointment after his team’s dramatic 4-4 draw with Portugal’s Porto. “We gave everything on the pitch,” Hani said.
“We created many chances and scored four goals, but we were unfortunate not to capitalize on several key opportunities. It’s frustrating and painful because our goal was to win and reach the Round of 16.”
Despite the early exit, Hani emphasized the value of the tournament for the squad’s development.
“This competition was a great learning experience—especially for the new players who recently joined the team,” he noted.
“It also served as an important phase of preparation for the coaching staff ahead of the upcoming season.”
Hani concluded with a heartfelt message to the fans: “Thank you to our amazing supporters who showed up in great numbers. We truly wanted to bring them joy. This is the nature of football, and we will keep fighting to deliver better results moving forward.”
Match recap
The Egyptian giants stormed out of the gates with aggressive pressing and quick transitions, unsettling Porto’s backline.
Abou Ali struck early in the 15th minute before Porto leveled through a swift counterattack. The Egyptian side regained control with a composed penalty by Abou Ali.
The second-half saw more attacking flair, with Abou Ali completing his hat trick and Mohamed Ali Ben Ramadan adding a fourth. However, defensive lapses allowed Porto to claw their way back and snatch a draw in a pulsating, end-to-end encounter.
