Controversy Before the Derby: Bencharki and Dunga’s Meeting Raises Questions

A meeting between Achraf Bencharki, Al Ahly’s player, and Nabil Dunga, Zamalek’s midfielder, has sparked controversy on social media just days before the highly anticipated Cairo Derby in the 15th round of the Egyptian Premier League, set to take place on Saturday, February 22.

Prior to the major game, Al Ahly will play Ismaily on the same day in Matchweek 14 while Zamalek will play Petrojet on Sunday. With 29 points, Al Ahly is presently in second position in the league, and Zamalek is in third with 26 points.

A photo of the two players together at a restaurant that has gone viral online is also causing controversy, in addition to the teams' results. This has caused many to wonder why they met before such an important game occurred.

Bencharki played for Zamalek from 2019–20 to 2022–2023 but never with Dunga, who joined the team from Pyramids FC following the Moroccan star’s exit, which leads to the rumors.

Following his free move back to the Egyptian League with Al Ahly last winter, Bencharki's encounter with a current Zamalek player has sparked a number of fan-generated theories and conversations.