Mohamed Barakat opened the scoring after being deftly set up in the box by Ahmed Hassan Farag, who diverted Flavio's long free-kick towards Ahli's top scorer.

The hosts' coaching staff members were seen in protest against the referee. Apparently they believe the goal should have been disallowed because Barakat was a couple of yards offside from Flavio's free-kick.

"The linesman was perfectly positioned, and he took enough time to render his judgment," Hossam told local TV after the game.

"When Flavio kicked the ball, Barakat was several yards offside, but he didn't interfere right away.

"Ahmed Farag, who came from behind to beat the offside trap, was the one who received the ball then flicked it to Barakat, and that was deemed a new play.”

Hossam also lauded the movements of the versatile Barakat, who cunningly tricked Gaish's defenders.

Orientation

Hossam reiterated that Mahmoud competently presided over the Egyptian Premier League game, dishing out praise for the massive close orientation camp which included more than 400 Egyptian referees.

The camp was under the supervision of the referees committee chief, who said that all participants were highly trained in groups.

"We've studied all the rules, including the basics," Hossam added.

"Both set-pieces and offside were our main concerns.

"What happened today indicates that we are witnessing a new era of football refereeing in Egypt."