Ahly's season ends in tatters after 4-game Riveiro sacking

Al Ahly SC have failed to qualify for the CAF Champions League following a campaign that began with the club sacking former Orlando Pirates boss Jose Riveiro just four league games into the season.

Al Ahly have now missed out on Champions League qualification for the first time since 2003.

This comes after a hugely underwhelming season under Danish coach Jess Thorup, who could only guide the club to a third-place finish in the Egyptian Premier League behind Zamalek SC and Pyramids FC.

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Al Ahly will now compete in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup alongside Kaizer Chiefs.

Al Ahly have been the dominant force in the Champions League, becoming the most decorated club in the competition’s history with a record 12 titles.

Their turbulent campaign began with the early dismissal of Spanish coach Riveiro, who was given his marching orders just four league games into the season after recording one win, two draws, and one defeat.

Prior to the start of the season, Riveiro oversaw the club’s three group-stage matches at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Riveiro joined Swedish outfit AIK Fotboll in mid-January after almost a year out of the game following his exit from the Egyptian powerhouse.

The Spanish tactician arrived in Sweden with a solid reputation built during his time in South Africa, where he enjoyed a successful spell with the Soweto giants.

During his stint with the Buccaneers, Riveiro guided the team to several trophies, winning three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups, while also helping restore their competitiveness in the league.

Stepping into a new environment with the Allsvenskan giants, the 48-year-old wasted little time stamping his authority, as his side collected two wins and a draw from their opening three matches.

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However, after that positive start, things have taken a different turn for the Vigo-born mentor, with his team now struggling to grind out positive results.