Al Ahly

Al-Ahly Sporting Club was founded on April 24, 1907, in Cairo, during a time of growing political unrest and national awakening in Egypt. The country was under British occupation, and football, introduced by the British, had become a popular pastime. Most football clubs at the time were either tied to colonial institutions or catered to foreigners living in Egypt. Omar Lotfy wanted something different. He envisioned a club created by Egyptians, specifically for Egyptians. This idea gave Al-Ahly its special meaning: its name translates directly to “The National,” symbolizing Egyptian pride and a desire for independence. Al-Ahly quickly became more than just a football team. It became a gathering place for Egyptians who dreamed of freedom and independence. The team began dominating Egyptian football right from the start, winning the very first Egyptian Premier League title in the 1948–49 season. Since then, Al-Ahly has collected an astonishing 44 league championships and holds a record 12 CAF Champions League titles, making it Africa’s most successful football club. Additionally, the club represented Africa at the FIFA Club World Cup multiple times. In 2006 and again in 2020, Al-Ahly earned third-place finishes, bringing global attention to Egyptian football.

 

Nevertheless the club faced its own serious setbacks, particularly when political events disrupted life across Egypt. The most devastating moment came on February 1, 2012—the Port Said stadium tragedy—when violent clashes led to the deaths of 74 Al-Ahly supporters. The event shook the entire nation. Still, the club and its fans showed resilience, overcoming grief and adversity together. Throughout its history, Al-Ahly has remained deeply connected to its passionate supporters, influencing not just football culture, but also Egypt's national identity.