Zamalek Split Over Refereeing Crew for Ceramica Cleopatra Match in Egyptian Premier League
Details of the internal dispute at Zamalek over requesting foreign referees for the decisive Ceramica Cleopatra match in the Egyptian Premier League and the Football Association’s position.
H1 Zamalek Split Over Refereeing Crew for Ceramica Cleopatra Match
Internal debate at Zamalek ahead of crucial match
Zamalek Club is witnessing internal disagreement regarding the refereeing team for the upcoming match against Ceramica Cleopatra in the final round of the Egyptian Premier League, amid differing opinions about appointing foreign referees or relying on a local officiating crew. These developments come at a critical moment as the 2025/2026 league title approaches its decisive stage.
Support for foreign referees
One side within the club believes that bringing in a foreign refereeing team is the best option to ensure fairness and integrity in the decisive match, especially as it could determine the league champion. This group argues that foreign referees could reduce pressure and enhance officiating neutrality in such a high-stakes encounter.
Opposition favoring local referees
On the other hand, another opinion within the club rejects the idea of foreign referees, preferring an Egyptian officiating team, claiming that local referees may handle match pressure more effectively. They also point out that time constraints and financial procedures could delay the arrival of foreign officials.
Official moves and Football Association stance
A source revealed that Zamalek has officially contacted the league organization to request foreign referees for the match, awaiting payment of required fees to the Egyptian Football Association to begin contacting European federations. The Football Association is reportedly waiting for a $50,000 transfer to proceed with the request; otherwise, the match will be assigned to an Egyptian refereeing team.
Financial support from Maged Abbas
The same source confirmed that the cost of bringing in foreign referees will be covered by Maged Abbas, Zamalek’s honorary president, after he approved the idea of appointing foreign officials for the match.
League title on the line
Zamalek needs just one point from the Ceramica Cleopatra match to officially secure the Egyptian Premier League title for the 2025/2026 season, after a strong and intense competition that lasted until the final rounds.
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