Zinnbauer between civil war and football for Al‑Hilal in Rwanda

Between civil war and football, Joe Zinnbauer faces the task of leading Al‑Hilal out of crisis, while he himself lives in Rwanda and keeps an eye on his players' daily concerns. The 56‑year‑old former HSV coach blends the harshness of war with the passion of football to give the club new perspectives.

Al‑Hilal in Exile

The traditional club Al‑Hilal Omdurman, record champion with 31 titles, has become practically homeless due to the civil war in Sudan. Since regular competition in the Greater Khartoum area cannot be guaranteed 100 percent, the team, thanks to a special exemption, started the season in the Rwandan Premier League. In 2024/25 Al‑Hilal also played in the Mauritanian league.

First Season in Rwanda

In the Rwanda BK Pro League, Al‑Hilal has so far played one match and won it, without recording a draw or a loss. The statistics read: matches 1, won 1, drawn 0, lost 0. Thus the team starts the new season with a perfect result.

Coaching Staff and Fan Support

Zinnbauer works closely with his co‑coaches Dragan Paljic and Stephan Loboué. He emphasizes that fans in every country they have visited have supported loudly and emotionally – dressed up, singing and full of energy. This enthusiasm is felt by the coaching staff and used to lift the club to a new sporting level.

The former Bundesliga coach sees the current situation as an extraordinary project. He talks about pressure, the need to give something back to the people in Sudan, and that football has the power to alleviate everyday worries.

Psychological Strain and Team Cohesion

The players must focus entirely on football while their families in Sudan live daily in uncertainty. Zinnbauer acts not only as a coach but also as a mentor, psychological support and crisis manager. He describes the squad as a family where envy and resentment have no place and everyone looks out for the neighbor's well‑being.

In the dressing room, they dance, sing and pray together – a cohesion that Zinnbauer calls a source of energy.

Market Value Analysis and Media Presence

The squad of Al‑Hilal Omdurman is valued at a market worth of 2.63 million. The latest analysis appears in the newest news and transfer forums, supported by premium service offers, video highlights and community platforms. Gaming and support areas are also mentioned in connection with the club, as well as comprehensive coverage in all forums and the ongoing analysis of market values.

“We don’t only play for Al‑Hilal, we also play for Sudan,” Zinnbauer sums up his motivation and emphasizes that football can bring people together in times of crisis.