In Abu Dhabi, Taher Taher Seeks to Cement Al Ahly’s Egyptian Super Cup Legend
7 November 2025
Ahead of the Egyptian Super Cup
Taher Mohamed Taher, the winger for Al Ahly, says the team is in a state of intense focus as the Egyptian Super Cup unfolds in the United Arab Emirates from 6 to 9 November.
Taher notes that the cup is viewed within the squad as a competition with a special status, not only for its quality but also for its historic significance in the club after lifting 15 titles previously.
The Cairo giants enter every tournament with one clear aim: to win a trophy, add to the cabinet, and strengthen the club's standing in this competition, which marks an important milestone at the start of each season.
Under a new technical staff led by Danish coach Yes Torup, the team’s ideas and positive spirit have given the players extra motivation, with everyone committing to show their best and claim the first trophy of the new era.
Playing the Super Cup in the UAE feels almost like playing in Egypt, thanks to the familiar atmosphere and the overwhelming fan support that gives players confidence and a sense of home away from home.
Taher also praised Al Ahly’s educational platform for athletes, designed to help players continue their studies while pursuing their football careers, calling it a sign of the club’s broader vision, comparable to leading European models such as Barcelona.
Injury Updates and Team News
The Ahly delegation, headed by Khaled Mortaji, arrived in Abu Dhabi to prepare for the final against Zamalek.
The squad left the training base in Al Ain and moved to Abu Dhabi after advancing to the final with a 2-1 win over Ceramica Cleopatra at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium.
The main training will take place in Abu Dhabi on the Cricket Stadium pitch, with lighter work for those who played versus Ceramica, and a tougher session for those who did not feature in the semifinal.
The final training will be held at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium, followed by a press conference with goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy and the Danish coach Yes Torup.
The medical staff confirmed Nij Gradishyhar is ready to face Zamalek on Sunday, after both Gradishyhar and Mahmoud Hassan Trezigiya had injuries in the semifinal. Gradishyhar reportedly suffered a muscle strain and will be checked, but is not seriously hurt; if he sits out, it’s a precautionary move rather than a medical warning.
Meanwhile, Mahmoud Hassan Trezigiya underwent a medical check and was found fully fit, with only a minor toe swelling expected to subside with painkillers.
Discussions also confirmed that Mohamed Shreef and Ahmed Rida are fully ready to play under coach Yes Torup’s plan.
Critical decisions within the Al Ahly delegation
Walid Salah El-Din, the club’s football director, imposed a media blackout on players. According to a source within the delegation, only three players were allowed to speak once under sponsorship rights, but upon returning to the hotel, the instruction was tightened to a complete media blackout.
Head of the club Mahmoud El Khatib reached out to Sid Abdul-Hafiz to ensure the squad’s stability and reminded everyone that the trophy is not yet won and that the next step is crucial. He also asked the team to monitor fan presence and ensure all support is in place for the Sunday match against Zamalek.
Punchline time
Punchline 1: If football were a smoothie, this match would be the perfect blend of tactics and drama—just sip and enjoy the chaos.
Punchline 2: And if trophies had a social life, this one would be constantly updating its status: “Finally, the one that got away has come back home.”
