ABU DHABI — Egypt’s Super Cup clash between Al-Ahly and Zamalek captivated nearly one billion viewers worldwide, with Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhy hailing the match as a global showcase for Egyptian football.
“The highly anticipated clash reflects the passion, reach, and prestige of Egyptian football,” Sobhy said.
“This remarkable global viewership demonstrates the prestigious standing of Egyptian football, both in the Arab world and internationally. It highlights its influence, broad appeal, and deep connection with fans across the globe.”
Sobhy also applauded the United Arab Emirates for its outstanding organisation of the event, praising the professionalism and precision that ensured the tournament’s success.
He commended the strong sports partnership between Egypt and the UAE, describing it as “a regional model of excellence in cooperation and management.”
The minister further credited President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for his unwavering support, which has driven the remarkable development of Egypt’s sports sector in recent years.
Al-Ahly grabs 156th title
Al-Ahly once again reaffirmed their dominance in Egyptian and African football, lifting their 156th title after a 2–0 victory over arch-rivals Zamalek to claim the Egyptian Super Cup at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
The win marked Al-Ahly’s fifth consecutive Super Cup and their 16th overall, further cementing their legacy as the most decorated club in the competition’s history.
Moroccan winger Achraf Bencharki opened the scoring just before half-time, while midfielder Marwan Attia sealed the win with a second-half strike in the 72nd minute, as the Red Devils produced a commanding performance in front of a packed crowd in the UAE capital.
Thorup makes statement
Al-Ahly manager Jess Thorup celebrated his first silverware with the Red Devils, leading the team to Egyptian Super Cup glory over archrivals Zamalek, just weeks after taking charge. The Danish coach expressed his delight at the victory and pledged to pursue more titles in the upcoming season.
“A huge thanks to our fans for supporting us from start to finish,” Thorup said. “Credit also goes to the players—they truly deserve this win.”
Thorup also reaffirmed his commitment to upholding high standards and pushing for success on all fronts, emphasising that Al-Ahly will fight fiercely for every domestic and continental trophy.
Relief in red camp
Following the Egyptian Super Cup triumph, Al-Ahly captain Mohamed El-Shenawy expressed his delight, noting the victory came at a crucial moment for the team.
“This championship is important—it gives us confidence and lifts a lot of the pressure we’ve been under,” El-Shenawy said. “Now we can focus fully on the CAF Champions League matches ahead.”
Echoing the sentiment, Al-Ahly’s general coach Adel Mostafa described the win as vital for the entire club after a demanding period.
“This title belongs to everyone—the fans, players, board, and technical staff,” Mostafa told On Sport TV. “The players have been under great pressure, but they stepped up. The upcoming break will help us recharge and fully implement the new coach’s philosophy.”
Perfect start
For Danish coach Jess Thorup, the victory was more than just a trophy—it was a statement of intent. The newly appointed tactician received early praise for his tactical control and composed approach in his first major test with the Cairo giants.
Former Al-Ahly stars Emad Meteb and Hossam Ghaly both lauded Thorup’s debut success. Meteb remarked that, “This win was crucial for Thorup and the new signings,” while Ghaly added, “Thorup presented his credentials to both the board and the fans—he managed the game impressively.”
Records and rivalry
The Abu Dhabi clash marked the 10th Super Cup meeting between Al-Ahly and Zamalek, with the Red Devils now holding a 7–2 advantage in these high-stakes encounters.
It was also the ninth time the two giants faced off outside Egypt, with Al-Ahly narrowly leading the tally—five wins to Zamalek’s four.
Goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy was named Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, Marwan Attia took home the Best Player award, and Ahmed Belhadji of Ceramica Cleopatra finished as the Top Scorer of the 2025 Egyptian Super Cup.
Al-Ahly received $350,000 in prize money for the title, while Zamalek earned $250,000 as runners-up.
