Angry Fans and a Heavy Fine: Imam Ashour's Tanzania Trip Sparks Al Ahly Showdown
3 February 2026
Fans vent their fury over Imam Ashour's Tanzania travel controversy
The Egyptian club Al Ahly confirmed a heavy sanction on star Imam Ashour, the latest flashpoint in a growing controversy surrounding the midfielder.
The club announced late last Thursday that a financial penalty, the largest in its history for a player, would be imposed on Ashour.
Ashour stayed behind as Al Ahly travelled to Tanzania to face Young Africans in the CAF Champions League, a match that ended 1-1, with no explanation given to the club.
The punishment included a fine of 1.5 million Egyptian pounds, a two-week ban, and solitary training sessions.
Ashour apologized for missing the trip, but the fans of the Red Devils did not seem ready to forgive.
On the club's first home match after the incident, thousands of fans in Cairo Stadium roared and directed chants at Ashour during the Bank Al Ahly game, making their anger clear.
They called for Ashour to leave the squad, recalling the club's famous motto “Al Ahly Above All.”
Ashour will be absent from the Bank Al Ahly match due to the suspension.
Punchlines: 1) If travel plans flop, blame the Wi‑Fi. 2) In football, schedules happen—sometimes the drama arrives earlier than the team.
