The Egyptian Football Association (FA) expressed its dismay at the treatment of goalkeeper Essam Al Hadary during the nation’s World Cup qualification opening match against the DR Congo. Despite a 2-1 victory, fans displayed poor choices after the team went down 1-0 to the Congolese, Samir Zaher, said. Al Hadary was showered with insults by Egyptian fans when the Congolese scored the opening goal of the match. Zaher described the situation to reporters as an embarrassment to the nation. “It was shameful,” Zaher said. “They are supposed to be backing the team, not insulting our players.” Al Hadary has been under scrutiny by Egyptians after a controversial transfer to Swiss club FC Sion following Egypt’s second consecutive African Cup of Nations triumph earlier this year in Ghana. “Did they buy tickets and attend the game only to call Al Hadary names?” The 35-year-old goalkeeper maintained his composure during the barrage of insults and Egypt went on to win the match. Al Hadary did not comment on the situation after the match.
