The Egyptian Super Cup: Two Contrasting Sides of Professionalism and Chaos

Written by Dr. Hamada El-Antably

Today, football fans in Egypt and the Arab world watched the Egyptian Super Cup match between Al-Ahly and Zamalek, which Zamalek won on penalty kicks. Here, I will not discuss technical matters, as analysts have done their job to the fullest. Instead, I will point out general manifestations and features of that match held at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Professionalism was the hallmark of the organization; the organizing committee succeeded brilliantly, achieving a full score before, during, and after the match—administratively, organizationally, commercially, and media-wise. This is hardly surprising coming from our brothers in the United Arab Emirates, where excellence and creativity carry an Emirati nationality.

On the other hand, a match between the same two teams is scheduled to take place on the 24th, just three days later, and bizarrely, it will be held behind closed doors. Just imagine the chaotic reality we are stuck in.

Let us look at another part of the picture on the pitch. Leaving technical matters aside, we witnessed hostility, hatred, and fighting between players who are supposed to be fellow Egyptians and were yesterday’s teammates in clubs and the national team that brings most of these players together. Then the match ends with riots on the pitch and brawls among players, looking more like a street fight than a match on a sports field, alongside attempts by players to provoke the fans. If not for being in a country governed by the rule of law with top-tier professional organizers, things could have taken a disastrous turn.

I return to the question: Did Egyptian football gain anything? Is this even sports? All of this was the result of unnecessary incitement on social media and channels owned by both clubs, which invent ways to stir up discord night and day. Are you satisfied after projecting such a terrible image of Egypt, watched by millions across the Arab world? Accountability for transgressions disappeared, and consequently, everything else vanished. Professional management won and achieved a full score, while amateur management, blind fanaticism, and ignorance are always the losers. No condolences for the fanatical ignoramuses. As for us fans and followers, God is our supporter, and there is no power nor strength except by God.

By Dr. Hamada El-Antably