Merih Demiral, Al Ahly's defender, revealed that he played in the semi-final match of the 2024-2025 AFC Champions League against Al Hilal while suffering from an illness.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Demiral spoke with his teammate Ezgjan Alioski, who disclosed that Demiral was experiencing a severe fever during the match, stating: "He was shivering due to the illness!"

However, Demiral showed great courage and confirmed that he continued to play despite the difficult health condition he was going through.

He noted that the support from Al Ahly fans played a significant role in helping him endure the illness and overcome it during the match.

Demiral confirmed that his health worsened after the match, but he found the enthusiasm of the fans to be a source of strength and inspiration that helped him in critical moments.