Zamalek, the defending Egyptian Premier League champions, climbed to the top of the table on Tuesday night after a challenging 2-0 victory over newly promoted Abu Qir for Fertilizers at Cairo Stadium. The match, part of the fourth round of the domestic competition, saw Zamalek secure three crucial points despite a spirited performance from the visitors.
Match Overview
Abu Qir, making their debut in the top flight, proved to be a tough opponent. They dominated possession with 53% and created more scoring opportunities, registering 13 shots compared to Zamalek’s 8. However, Zamalek’s efficiency in front of goal made the difference.
First-Half Breakthrough
Zamalek took the lead in the 17th minute through Mohamed Ismail, who unleashed a spectacular volley that found the back of the net. The goal came after Moroccan defender Mahmoud Bentaik had drawn goalkeeper Mahmoud Abdel Rahim ‘Gennsh’ out of position, leaving the net exposed for Ismail’s strike.
Key Defensive Moment
The most significant chance for Abu Qir came in the 69th minute when Oday Al-Dabbagh attempted to convert a cross from Omar Gaber. Defender Mohamed Dabash made a crucial goal-line clearance to preserve Zamalek’s lead, a moment that proved pivotal in the match.
Late Sealer
With three minutes remaining in regular time, substitute Ahmed Sherif secured the win with a second goal. He capitalized on a defensive lapse, sprinting into the penalty area and chipping the ball over the advancing goalkeeper Gennsh.
League Standings and Implications
This victory lifted Zamalek to 10 points, placing them at the summit of the league table, albeit temporarily, as other fourth-round matches are yet to be played. Zamalek now holds a one-point lead over Pyramids, Al Ahly, and Ceramica Cleopatra, though both Pyramids and Al Ahly have played only three matches so far.
Zamalek’s third win of the season follows victories over Al Ahly Bank and Petrojet, with their only blemish being a draw against Alexandria’s Ittihad in the season opener. Meanwhile, Abu Qir remains on 3 points in 15th place after suffering their third consecutive defeat.
Upcoming Fixtures
Zamalek will face Ghazl El Mahalla away on September 16 in the fifth round of the league. Before that, they have a CAF Champions League preliminary round second-leg match against Djibouti’s Port on Saturday.