With Monday’s Egyptian Premier League fixture against Ghazl El Mahalla fast approaching, Al Ahly have intensified their preparations under head coach José Riveiro. The reigning champions have balanced tactical refinement with a focus on squad cohesion, all while eagerly monitoring the progress of midfielder Marwan Attia’s rehabilitation.
Tactical Adjustments and Intensive Training
Riveiro convened the first session at the club’s training headquarters, where players engaged in intricate technical drills tailored to Ghazl El Mahalla’s defensive setup. Emphasis was placed on ball control, quick transitions, and movement patterns designed to exploit spaces in the opposition’s back line. After a detailed team meeting outlining the match plan, the squad moved through positional rondos and small-sided games to reinforce pressing triggers and off-the-ball rotations.
Following this, Al Ahly conducted their final full-team workout at Mokhtar El Tetsh Stadium on Sunday. Here, Riveiro fine-tuned set-piece routines and defensive shape during simulated match scenarios. Immediately after training, he will name the 18-man squad that will depart for a closed camp in Kafr El Sheikh, where the team will remain until kick-off at Ghazl El Mahalla Stadium.
The Camp in Kafr El Sheikh
Embedding the squad in a secluded environment is a strategic move to sharpen focus. In previous rounds—most notably their 4-1 triumph over Pharco FC—Al Ahly credited the benefits of a similar residential camp, citing improved tactical cohesion and mental readiness. This time, the Red Eagles will stay in Kafr El Sheikh until matchday, allowing Riveiro to conduct additional video sessions, psychological briefings, and recovery work without outside distractions.
Marwan Attia’s Road to Full Fitness
Central to the club’s midfield plans is Marwan Attia, who has been sidelined since undergoing hernia surgery. Attia has been progressing through an individualized rehabilitation program, combining physiotherapy, strength training, and light ball work. Club sources confirm that he is closing in on a return to full training, with expectations that he may rejoin squad drills within days if recovery continues apace. His anticipated comeback provides a potential boost in both creativity and defensive stability.
Looking Ahead
Al Ahly enter the fourth round of the season seeking to extend their unbeaten start—following a 1-1 draw with Modern Sport and their emphatic win over Pharco FC. Riveiro’s meticulous preparations, coupled with Attia’s imminent return, signal the club’s intent to maintain momentum. As the squad settles into their Kafr El Sheikh camp, all eyes will be on the line-up announcement and whether Attia can reclaim his place in the matchday roster.
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