Egypt goalkeeper El-Shenawy gets four-match ban after referee clash

Egyptian international goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy has been suspended for four matches and fined after a confrontation with a referee during Al Ahly SC’s 1–1 draw against Ceramica Cleopatra in the Egyptian Pro League.

The disciplinary measure follows an outburst from El-Shenawy, who was among the substitutes during the game. He reportedly reacted furiously after the referee declined to award Al Ahly a late penalty for a suspected handball deep into stoppage time.

Tensions flared further after the final whistle, culminating in a physical exchange with the match official.

In a statement released on Friday, the league authorities confirmed the sanction, noting that the goalkeeper received a four-match ban alongside a fine of 50,000 Egyptian pounds for making physical contact with the referee “by pushing or pulling without violent conduct.”

The suspension means the 37-year-old will miss key league fixtures and is likely to remain unavailable until the closing phase of the Championship round, where the top seven teams battle for the title.

El-Shenawy remains a vital figure for both club and country, having served as Egypt’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

He is also widely expected to feature in the national team’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America.

Currently, Al Ahly sit third in the playoff standings with 41 points after one game, trailing leaders Zamalek SC by five points.

The decision comes at a critical point in the season as Al Ahly continue their push to retain the league crown in a fiercely competitive title race.