2007 Teams - Al Ahly Team Profile

Crowned as Africa’s team of the last century, Al Ahly are arguably the most successful side in the history of the game on the continent. The team, too, are avidly supported, not only in Egypt but throughout the Arab world.

Founded 100 years ago, Al Ahly have won nine continental titles, five of them during a glorious period in the 1980s when they totally dominated the African football scene.

Al Ahly were the first side to win three continental titles in a row from 1984 to 1986, earning the right to keep the African Cup Winners’ Cup. This year they strive to achieve the same feat in the MTN CAF Champions League.

Players like the Hassan twins, goalkeeper Ahmed Shobeir and midfield general Mahmoud Al Khatib, the only player from the country to be named African Footballer of the Year.

Al Ahly provided the backbone of the Egyptian side that played at the 1990 World Cup finals in Italy.

The club have also totally dominated the domestic league in Egypt, winning 32 championships in 50 years. Only five times has the club failed to finish outside the top three and their lowest ever finish has been seventh.

In the last three seasons, Al Ahly have lost just three matches in the Egyptian league.

Portuguese coach Manuel took Al Ahly to the MTN CAF Champions League title in 2001 and returned to guide them to the 2005 and 2006 as well. He has recently signed a contract extension.