Hossam Ghaly bids farewell to Al Ahly

Al Ahly's player Hossam Ghaly (L) in action against an Wydad Casablanca goalkeeper Mohamed Akid during the African Champions League (CAF) group stage match between Al Ahly and Asec Mimosas at Borg Al Arab stadium in Alexandria, Egypt, 16 July 2016. EPA/KHALED ELFIQI

by Graeme Jackson

Saturday May 12, 2018. 13:00

Egyptian football legend Hossam Ghaly bid farewell to Al Ahly on Friday night as the Red Devils defeated Eredivisie side Ajax Amsterdam in a testimonial match in Abu Dhabi.

The game at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium saw Ahly claim a 1-0 victory thanks to an 83rd minute goal from Salah Mohsen.

The 36-year-old Ghaly gave a tearful goodbye upon being substituted with 14 minutes to play, and also choked up during a speech prior to kick-off.

The midfielder thanked the supporters, expressed his gratitude for his family, including his wife who accompanied him on the pitch, and also paid tribute to his late father.

The player’s club career began with Al Ahly at the turn of the century, before he went on to represent the likes of Feyenoord, Tottenham, Al Nassr and Lierse.

He also represented the Egyptian national team from 2002 to 2016, collecting over 70 caps in the process and helping the Pharaohs win the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghaly is set to move into an administrative position with Al Ahly.