Al-Ahly extended their disappointing pre-season run with a 3-1 defeat to Vitória Guimarães in Portugal on Friday, deepening concerns about their readiness for the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season. The Egyptian giants fielded many of their key players but found themselves trailing by three goals at halftime, forcing manager changes after the break. Brazilian forward Matheus Goncalves reduced the deficit early in the second half, yet the damage had already been inflicted.
This latest loss follows a 4-1 humbling by Holstein Kiel in Austria, marking the club's second heavy defeat during their overseas training camp. Al-Ahly's only bright spot came with an 8-0 demolition of Saalfelden, along with a 2-2 draw against Rio Ave. The pattern of inconsistent results mirrors a troubling precedent: their cross-town rivals Al-Ittihad suffered similarly poor pre-season form last year before enduring a catastrophic campaign that saw them finish fifth in the domestic league despite being reigning champions.
Injury Crisis Deepens Concerns
Beyond the scoreline, injury setbacks are compounding Al-Ahly's frustration. Saleh Abu Al-Shamat was stretchered off during the Vitória match after a heavy collision, joining left-back Zakaria Hawsawi on the growing casualty list. These injuries arrive at a particularly vulnerable moment, as the club lost experienced talents including Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez and Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié during the off-season. Supporters fear that accumulated absences could replicate the squad depth problems that plagued rivals earlier this year.
Al-Ahly's management must turn the tide quickly. Two remaining friendlies—against Portimonense and Fulham—before their July 28 departure from Portugal offer crucial opportunities to rebuild confidence and assess fitness levels. How the Red Devils respond to adversity in these final tune-ups could prove decisive for their title aspirations in the coming campaign.
