In an exclusive and candid interview, Senegalese international goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, the guardian of Al-Ahli Saudi FC's net, opened up to sports fans, revealing intricate details about his career with the club and his vision for the team's future. These statements, published on the club's official X platform, underscore Mendy's leadership role both on and off the field. This interview comes at a time when Saudi football is experiencing unprecedented growth and attracting some of the world's top stars, making the comments of a player of Mendy's stature highly significant in both local and international sporting circles.

African goalkeeping legends: from N'Kono to El-Hadary

The former world's best goalkeeper made no secret of his deep admiration for the venerable African goalkeeping schools, specifically mentioning the Egyptian legend Essam El-Hadary, nicknamed "The High Dam." Mendy explained that El-Hadary represents an icon of perseverance and determination for him, especially since the Egyptian goalkeeper managed to defy age and maintain the highest level for extended periods, achieving continental feats that are difficult to replicate. Mendy also reminisced about Cameroonian Thomas N'Kono, considered the father of modern goalkeeping and an inspiration to Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, emphasizing that these giants paved the way for African goalkeepers to shine in major European leagues, a path Mendy himself followed to win the UEFA Champions League.

The continental title... cementing Saudi identity in Asia

Speaking about his achievements with Al-Ahli, Mendy placed winning the AFC Champions League at the forefront of his most memorable moments. He pointed out that the 2-0 victory over Japan's Kawasaki Frontale in the final was not just a win in a single match, but a declaration of Al-Ahli's return as a dominant force in Asia. This title holds immense strategic importance, enhancing the standing of Saudi clubs on the international stage and aligning with the tremendous development witnessed in the Kingdom's sports sector. He emphasized that this achievement is the fruit of collective effort and meticulous administrative planning aimed at placing Al-Ahli in its rightful place on the world stage.

The Hong Kong saga: The leader under pressure

The Senegalese goalkeeper recalled the Saudi Super Cup match against arch-rivals Al-Nassr, held in Hong Kong, describing it as the most difficult and dramatic moment. The match, which ended in a 2-2 draw and was decided by penalties in favor of Al-Ahli, served as a true test of the team's mental fortitude. The significance of this match lies in the fact that it showcased the positive image of Saudi football in East Asia, as it was played before a large crowd and with global media coverage, confirming the success of Saudi football's international marketing plans. Mendy and his teammates proved their ability to handle immense pressure against an opponent boasting some of the world's best players.

Al-Raed fans... the number one supporters

Mendy concluded his remarks with a heartfelt message of gratitude to Al Ahly's fans, describing them as the "key factor" in the team's success. He emphasized that the passion of the Al Ahly supporters and their constant chants provide the players with inexhaustible energy, asserting that the strong bond between the team and its fans is the true secret behind their impressive return to winning titles, and that these fans always deserve gold and championships.

Football fans are eagerly anticipating the partnership between veteran Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Confederation, with all indications pointing to an unprecedented level of stability in the relationship between the two parties. The Seleção's manager is on the verge of signing a historic contract extension, a strategic move aimed at building a comprehensive sporting project that transcends immediate ambitions and reaches far-reaching goals.

Project details up to Centennial 2030

According to reports from Sky Sports, negotiations have almost been finalized in favor of Ancelotti remaining as head coach of the Brazilian national team until June 30, 2030. This agreement means that the Italian coach will not only lead the Seleção in the 2026 World Cup scheduled to be held in North America, but his tenure will extend to include the historic centenary edition of the World Cup in 2030, reflecting the Brazilian Football Confederation's unwavering confidence in Ancelotti's abilities.

Astronomical figures: salary and bonuses

Financially, the new contract places Ancelotti among the highest-paid coaches in the history of national teams. Leaks suggest a fixed annual salary of €10 million. The offer doesn't stop there; it also includes substantial incentives to motivate the coach and players, most notably a €5 million bonus payable immediately if Brazil wins its sixth World Cup title in 2026.

Administrative flexibility and special family provisions

One of the most notable aspects of the agreement was the flexibility shown by the Brazilian Football Confederation to ensure the coach's peace of mind. The contract included a clause allowing Ancelotti to travel regularly to Canada for vacations with his Canadian wife and family, demonstrating the officials' desire to provide an ideal working environment that would allow the coach to focus fully on the pitch.

A historic shift in samba strategy

This move is of paramount importance given the historical context of Brazilian football. Brazil, the most successful nation in World Cup history, has always relied on local coaches to maintain its footballing identity. Hiring a European coach of Ancelotti's caliber and extending his contract for a long period represents a radical shift in the Brazilian Football Confederation's management philosophy, and an implicit acknowledgment of the need for a disciplined European approach combined with innate Brazilian skill to break the World Cup drought that has persisted since 2002.

Artistic stability and its impact on stars

Analysts believe this extension will have a positive impact on dressing room stability, especially given Ancelotti's close, fatherly relationship with Brazil's star players, such as Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, whom he oversaw at Real Madrid. Having a coach who knows how to manage star players and commands their respect is the missing piece the Seleção is looking for to regain its international prestige.

Commenting on the renewal news, Ancelotti maintained his usual calm, saying: "We are not in a hurry, but if the idea is to continue, then there is no problem. The truth is that the contract before the World Cup is less financially, and after it it may be much higher," in a statement that reflects his great confidence in achieving accomplishments that will raise his market value and immortalize his name in the history of Brazilian football.

In a memorable football match at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium, Zamalek's first team proved their continental prowess with a hard-fought and well-deserved 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs. This match, part of the sixth and final round of the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, saw the White Knights secure their place at the top of their group with 11 points, sending a strong message to their opponents in the knockout rounds.

White dominance and missed opportunities in the first half

The first half saw intense attacking pressure from Zamalek from the opening minutes, as the players sought to unlock the South African team's defense early on. In the 14th minute, Ahmed Sherif squandered a golden opportunity after a brilliant pass from Oday Dabbagh, but his final touch lacked precision. Zamalek's threat continued in the 26th minute with a powerful shot from Dabbagh, which the Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper brilliantly saved. Despite persistent attempts, including a shot from Dabbagh in stoppage time that went wide, the first half ended in a goalless draw, much to the anticipation of the home fans.

Tactical changes decide the match

At the start of the second half, coach Moataz Gamal made a tactically astute substitution, bringing on veteran star Abdallah El Said in place of Ahmed Sherif to revitalize the attack. This tactical move quickly paid off; in the 53rd minute, Brazilian Juan Bezerra opened the scoring with a superb header, capitalizing on a perfectly delivered cross from Nasser Mansi. Zamalek weren't finished there, as substitute Abdallah El Said doubled their lead in the 72nd minute. Despite the visitors managing to pull one back with a late goal in the 75th minute, Zamalek's experience ultimately secured the three points.

Zamalek's continental history and title ambitions

This victory further fuels Zamalek's ambitions to reclaim their African glory. With a rich history on the continent, boasting five CAF Champions League titles and a previous CAF Confederation Cup victory in 2019, Zamalek aims to add another continental trophy to their collection through this strong performance. Topping their group is a pivotal step for the team, reflecting the technical and administrative stability they enjoy and the players' desire to bring joy to their fans, who are eager for silverware.

The importance of being in first place and the benefits of qualifying

The importance of defeating Kaizer Chiefs extends beyond simply securing points; it encompasses strategic gains in the tournament. Securing first place with 11 points gives Zamalek a significant advantage in the quarter-final draw, avoiding an early clash with other group winners and theoretically paving an easier path to the semi-finals. Furthermore, the victory provides a tremendous morale boost for the coaching staff, led by Moataz Gamal, and instills greater confidence in the available players, especially given the impressive performances of the substitutes and foreign professionals. This underscores the squad's depth and its ability to compete in the decisive stages.