Jess Thorup: Al Ahly deserved the win, goalkeeper competition is healthy

Danish coach Jess Thorup believes Al Ahly were the better side against Wadi Degla, highlighting the competition in the goalkeeping position and refusing to discuss the striker situation at the moment.

Al Ahly claimed a 3–1 victory over Wadi Degla in Round 16 of the Nile Egyptian League.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Thorup said, according to Yallakora:
“I told the Al Ahly players that football is only played to win, and winning two matches has already given us real confidence.”

He added:
“We have to believe in ourselves, and that is the most important thing in football. I think we fully deserved the victory and were the better team against Wadi Degla.”

Thorup stressed the importance of defensive solidity, saying:
“I told the players that good defending is what wins titles, and I was hoping we would not concede any goals.”

The Al Ahly coach also praised goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy for his performance:
“Mohamed El Shenawy deserves credit for his excellent saves in the first half and for keeping us in the game at important moments.”

Commenting on Marwan Osman’s performance, Thorup said:
“Marwan Osman scored an important goal for himself and for the team, and I congratulated him on his effort. Overall, I am satisfied with his performance today. He is a young player and needs patience, and his level will improve with time.”

On the competition for the goalkeeping spot, Thorup explained:
“There is strong competition in the goalkeeping position at Al Ahly. I informed both El Shenawy and Mostafa Shobeir that they will get opportunities during this period, and after that we will evaluate their performances.”

Thorup concluded by addressing transfer rumors:
“I am not focusing on what people are saying about signing a striker. I am following up with the club in case there is anything new before the African registration deadline, but I will not talk about the striker situation. The matter is left to the club’s officials.”