Fresh from leading Egypt’s U23 side to the African Cup of Nations title, all eyes will be on Ramadan Sobhi as Ahly resume their Egyptian Premier League campaign against Gouna on Monday.
The in-form winger was instrumental in helping the young Pharaohs win the title and qualify for next year’s Olympic Games, producing some impressive displays.
He provided an assist and scored an extra-time winner as Egypt defeated Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 in the final at Cairo Stadium on Friday.
He then immediately joined up with Ahly, where he plays on loan from English side Huddersfield Town, to prepare for the Gouna match as the Red Devils seek to maintain their perfect start.
Ahly, who eye a fifth straight title, won their opening three matches with a swagger, producing vivid attacking displays under Swiss coach Rene Weiler.
Sobhi stole the limelight in the early stages of the season, having notably improved his finishing skills. He netted three goals in as many matches to prove Ahly’s most lethal weapon.
He rejoined his boyhood club on a short-term loan deal last January to help Ahly stage a remarkable comeback and snatch the league title from under the noses of perennial Cairo rivals Zamalek.
His loan was extended for another season in the summer as Ahly hope their prized asset can lead them to more triumphs.
Gouna have made a disappointing start to the season, collecting just four points from four matches to drop to fourth from bottom.
Ahly will defensive midfielder Hamdi Fathi and playmaker Saleh Gomaa through injury.
Source: Ahram online
