Nigerian tactician Aliyu Zubair has been officially unveiled as the new head coach of Sudanese club Al Ahly Wad Madani ahead of the 2026/27 season. The unveiling took place on Friday during a ceremony in Kigali, Rwanda, where the club is currently preparing for the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Two-Year Contract and Immediate Assignment
Zubair signed a two-year contract with the Sudanese club following his departure from Egyptian second-tier outfit Telecom SC. His immediate assignment is to guide Al Ahly Wad Madani through the CAF Confederation Cup, starting with a first preliminary round tie against Kenyan side Tusker.
Speaking after his unveiling, Zubair expressed excitement at taking charge of the historic club while acknowledging the expectations that come with the role. “Al Ahly Madani is another huge challenge for me. It is a great club with rich history and high ambitions,” he said. “I am looking forward to working with the players, the management and the fans to achieve our objectives, especially as the team prepare to compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.”
Coaching Background and Achievements
The appointment marks another important chapter in Zubair's coaching career. He has previously managed Nigerian clubs Gombe United and El-Kanemi Warriors. One of his most notable achievements came with El-Kanemi Warriors in 2024, when he guided the Maiduguri-based side to Federation Cup glory.
Zubair, a former Flying Eagles coach, now begins work with the squad in Kigali as preparations intensify. The club's attention is firmly fixed on its continental campaign, with the first hurdle being Tusker of Kenya.
Continental Ambitions and Expectations
Al Ahly Wad Madani, a club with a rich history and high ambitions, will look to Zubair's experience on the domestic Nigerian scene to bring success both at home and on the continent. The team's preparation in Rwanda is part of a broader strategy to compete effectively in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Zubair's appointment is seen as a significant step for the Sudanese club, which aims to make a strong impression in the continental competition. The Nigerian coach will be hoping to translate his past successes, including the 2024 Federation Cup triumph, into a fruitful tenure in Sudan.
