Egypt gears up for Arabian Gulf Super Cup
DUBAI: Egypt hosts the Arabian Gulf Super Cup for the second time in the competition’s history, on the back of three Egyptian Super Cup matches taking place in the UAE.
An exchange that embodies the strength of the “super” relations between the two brotherly nations.
The Aug.25 will be an exceptional night in the Egyptian capital Cairo as it hosts the big clash between Al Ain and Al Wahda for the Arabian Gulf Super Cup.
Thousands of Emirati fans will flock to the buzzing city and many more Egyptian football fans will be present to watch one team lift the coveted trophy, proving to the world the mutual love between the peoples of the two nations which is always a reason for the success of any Emirati event held in Egypt and vice-versa.
The historic relations between the two nations were established by the late founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who took the lead in supporting the people of Egypt in key moments and remained passionate about Egypt and its people.
Sheikh Zayed even asked his sons to always hold Egypt in their hearts. After the founding father passed away, the nation’s wise leaders continued on the path of enhancing the relations and bringing the two friendly peoples closer.
On the sporting front, exchange between the two countries has a long history; the first visit to the Emirates by an Egyptian team predates the union, that is when then African champions Al Ismaily visited the country in 1969. Al Wahda (present day Shabab Al Ahli) repaid the visit the following year. Four years later, a star-studded Al Ahly side toured Sharjah and Abu Dhabi as the sporting exchange continued to date.
The UAE has over the years been a most sought after place for Egyptian athletes as managers contributed to the renaissance of Emirati football starting with the late Mohammed Siddiq (Shihta), the first ever manager for the UAE national team. Egyptian coaches followed in his footsteps with “The General” Mahmoud El Gohary topping the list of Egyptian coaches who left their mark in UAE football. Most recently, Ayman Al Ramadi has been making his name in the Arabian Gulf League with Ajman.
Top players from Egypt graced UAE pitches, including the likes of Hosni Abd Rabo, Mohammed Zidan and now Hussein El Shahat. A number of young Egyptian talents await their turn this season as resident players make their Arabian Gulf League debut.
The Arabian Gulf Super Cup has been welcomed by top officials in Egypt, with Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhi announcing that all preparations have been put in place to make this a successful even in celebration of the Year of Zayed.
Dr Sobhi’s statement aligns with those from Emirati officials who consider organising the Super Cup in Cairo a testament to the strong ties between the two countries and emphasise the role of sport in serving the public interest.