Zamalek director of football Abdel Nasser Mohamed has imposed a heavy financial penalty on forward Naser Mansi following his celebration against the Rwandan army team during a CAF Champions League fixture in Kigali.
Late Match Winner Overshadowed by Kit Celebration
The decisive moment arrived in the 90th minute at Amahoro Stadium, where a precise delivery from substitute Ahmed Abdel Rahim Isho found Naser Mansi inside the penalty area. The forward drove a right-footed shot past Adolf Hakizimana into the corner of the net, breaking a stubborn deadlock and securing a vital away victory for the Egyptian side.
Yet the elation of the final whistle was immediately complicated by the player’s subsequent reaction. After beating the Rwandan defense, Mansi removed his club jersey and threw it to the turf. The gesture ignited swift backlash from supporters across social media channels, prompting an immediate intervention from the club’s administration as reported by regional outlets.
Abdel Nasser Mohamed Imposes Fine and Player Apology
Director of football Abdel Nasser Mohamed wasted no time addressing the incident, notifying the striker of a severe financial sanction designed to enforce strict internal discipline regardless of match-winning contributions. The penalty underscores management’s insistence on decorum following a tense week that included a domestic league defeat to Al Ahly.
Mansi sought to make amends during the team meal later that evening, offering a formal apology to manager Motamed Gamal, the coaching staff, and his teammates while accepting the disciplinary measure without resistance.
Congratulations to the Zamalek fans and thank God for the win. I was under pressure during the past period, and I did not mean to offend anyone with my celebration. I accept any decision from the club’s football administration.
Naser Mansi, Zamalek forward
Cairo Return Leg Determines Group Stage Path
The narrow aggregate advantage gives Zamalek a crucial cushion heading into the return leg. The squad will host the Rwandan side in Cairo on October 24, 2026, where a victory or a draw will secure their progression into the tournament’s group stage.
