The Ismaili club has decided to withdraw from the 2022 Egypt Cup after the round of 16 draw was held today, Saturday, which saw the Ismailis clash with Zamalek.

And the Ismaili statement said: “The Board of Directors of the Ismaili Club, headed by engineer Yahya El-Komi, rejects what happened during the draw for the 16th round of the Egyptian Cup for the 2021-2022 season, as it is directed in favor of certain clubs. And the FA Competitions Committee confirmed that Al Ahli and Zamalek finished first and second in the Premier League last season, with 8 clubs placed from third to eighth by lottery.

He continued: “The Club Association and the Competition Committee overruled the Ismaili Club’s objection during the draw under the pretense of postponing the discussion until the end of the draw, but they quickly left without hearing complaints from the club’s representatives. The Ismaili Board of Directors believes that this draw was made in an unfair manner, as compliments were made to the clubs.” In particular, at the expense of other clubs, which violates the principle of equal opportunities, and accordingly it was decided to withdraw from the Egyptian Cup in protest against what happened in order to preserve the rights of the ancient club and its fans.

Safwan Shami