Beware, O Al Ahly… For the World Cup is No Stroll in The Park!

By: Dr. Hamada El-Antably

While following the news of Al Ahly Club in Miami during its participation in the new, expanded edition of the FIFA Club World Cup—which features 32 teams of global club champions—I noticed that some players are treating the event as if it were a stroll in the park rather than a preparation camp for the greatest global sporting gathering at the club level.

With all due respect to the football company’s partnership with the United Company and the unprecedented marketing effort in the history of Egyptian and Arab football that accompanied this historic participation—an achievement worthy of praise—this marketing success must be matched by a greater on-field effort by the team, especially since we are scheduled to face the football giants of the world.

The preparation of the players and the coaching staff must be different, particularly since the management has spared nothing and made a massive effort to recruit the best elements to form a “dream team.” In contrast, we hear celebratory statements from some players, while others express excessive confidence to the point of saying: “We came to win the World Cup.” No doubt this is a commendable ambition, but… what I fear is that we might repeat the scenario of our first participation in the 2005 edition, when the team went with high ambitions to win the tournament, only for everyone to be surprised by an early exit. Back then, we lost in the quarterfinals to Al-Ittihad of Saudi Arabia by a solitary goal, and then to Sydney FC of Australia 2-1, finishing in sixth place in a disappointing participation.

From here, I direct my appeal to the delegation management, as well as the technical and administrative staff, to impose a state of complete discipline, total media blackouts, and a focus solely on work inside the pitch. The players must realize the importance and gravity of this event, treating each match individually, for the group is strong and the competition is harder than some might imagine. The Club World Cup is not a celebration; it is a true test of Al Ahly’s capability to compete globally.

All eyes are now turning toward the opening match against Inter Miami, a game that represents the start of the road, and we must begin it with extreme caution and focus.

I wish success to the representative of Egyptian football and the owner of the historic legacy, Al Ahly Club, this entity that has imposed its respect on everyone and possesses the capability to achieve miracles… for the impossible is not Al Ahly’s way.

Behind you, O Al Ahly!

By: Dr. Hamada El-Antably