Top Referee Halil Umut Meler to Lead Egyptian Super Cup Showdown: Al Ahly vs. Zamalek in Abu Dhabi

Appointment for the Egyptian Super Cup Final

The Egyptian Football Association announced on Saturday that Turkish referee Halil Umut Meler will supervise the final of the Egyptian Super Cup between Al Ahly and Zamalek, to be staged at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Sunday evening.

Al Ahly reached the final after a 2-1 win over Ceramica Cleopatra in the semi-finals, while Zamalek advanced by beating Pyramids on penalties, 5-4, following a goalless draw.

Referee Team and Experience

Center referee Halil Umut Meler will be supported by Turkish colleagues as assistants, with an Emirati official serving as the fourth official. A Hungarian official will operate as the Video Assistant Referee, with a Mexican colleague assisting on VAR duties, forming a diverse officiating team for the high-profile clash.

Born in 1986, Meler is a FIFA international since 2017 and has rapidly become a trusted figure in major matches across Europe. He has officiated in UEFA competitions and was part of the officiating cadre at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, strengthening his reputation on the world stage.

Known for his calm presence, precise decision-making, and clear communication with the Video Assistant Referee, Meler has earned trust from leagues and federations alike. In 2023 and 2024, his assignments expanded to decisive European knockout games, earning praise from analysts for handling critical moments well.

Beyond senior football, he has worked in youth tournaments and European Championships as part of UEFA’s strategy to nurture a new generation of referees capable of withstanding pressure at the world’s biggest stages. He is viewed as a potential candidate for semifinals or finals in continental competitions in the future.

With ongoing development and the confidence of both Turkish and European authorities, Meler is seen as a key figure in Turkey’s resurgence on the international refereeing map.

Season highlights

In a busy season, Meler has taken charge of several league matches in Turkey and European fixtures, including a handful of Europa League assignments as well as notable domestic finals. His versatility and adherence to protocol underlines why he is trusted for high-stakes assignments.

Earlier this season in the Egyptian league, Al Ahly defeated Zamalek 2-1 under Spanish referee Suto Grado, who had recently overseen a Clasico-style clash in Spain’s La Liga. Al Ahly’s decision to push for foreign referees in earlier rounds last season also sparked debate and strong reactions within the Egyptian football community.

Looking ahead

The appointment of Meler underscores a trend toward international officials presiding over the most watched matches, a move that aims to bring consistency and experience to a fixture that captivates millions of fans across Egypt and the Arab world.

In short, the final promises to be guided by a referee with a track record of precision, composure, and a penchant for clear communication with VAR—ingredients that could tip the balance in a classic rivalry between two of Egypt’s most storied clubs.

And if Halil Umut Meler manages the whistle well, maybe he’ll finally settle the debate over who makes the better espresso: the ref or the fans; at least one thing will get a true yellow card of fairness.