Al-Ahly edge out Zamalek 2-1

CAIRO (GoPharaohs.com) – Ahly held on to their domestic unbeaten streak following a nail-biting clash with arch-rivals Zamalek, in which the Red Devils barely edged out their opponents 2-1.

The narrow victory follows in the heels of Ahly’s exceptional World Cup for Clubs performances, as well as two consecutive league wins against ENPPI and Haras Al Hodoud, and continues the trend of Ahly wins in recent derby games. Angolan sensation Flavio netted two goals, while Osama Hassan brought Zamalek within throwing distance of an equalizer with a spectacular free kick that eluded Hadary who had to fetch it from the back of the net.

Both teams had difficulty producing an adequate starting lineup. While Zamalek had to deal with the absence of several defenders such as Tamer Abdel Wahab, Mahmoud Mahmoud and Amr Al Safty, Ahly’s tally was larger. In addition to the long-term injuries of Mohamed Barakat and Gilberto, the Reds were forced to make last-minute amends as stalwart defender Wael Gomaa sustained an injury while warming up for the derby. Mohamed Shawky was subbed out in the first half due to an injury, and Mohamed Abou Treika’s form was seemingly affected by a rumored injury sustained during the last few days of training. Essam El Hadary returned to defend Ahly’s net after a short injury that saw him miss three consecutive games, after substitute keeper Amir Abdel Hamid was also struck out due to injury.

Zamalek’s coaching staff saw fit to call upon castaway Ibrahim Said who did not see field action since Egypt’s friendly win over South Africa a month and a half ago, after a falling out with Zamalek’s former coaching staff, as well as the current board of directors. Said, whose in-game antics earned him a regrettable scolding by Ahly fans attending the game, contributed largely to the Whites’ defeat through poor marking of Flavio. One finds difficulty placing the blame on the chaotic defender however, as Flavio’s exceptional form makes marking him a chore for a seasoned back, let alone one who has been out of club action as long as Said.

A disturbing trend in the game was the progressively sub-par performance of the defense on both sides. Yamin bin Zekry, Ibrahim Said and Wael Al Qabbany found excruciating difficulty keeping tabs on Ahly’s forward trio, with Flavio, Met’eb and Abou Treika routinely running circles around the White Tribe’s helpless defense. One wonders what the score line would have been had Abou Treika retained his legendary form in the match. In contrast, Ahly’s defense did not fare better, with the possible exception of Shady Mohamed. Emad El Nahhas offered an uneven performance along with last-minute replacement Ahmed El Sayyed. Zamalek’s left flank composed initially of Tarek El Sayed and Mohamed Aboul Ela provided a powerful springboard for long balls to Zamalek’s eager forwards, completely demolishing newcomer Ahmed Siddeek whose performance casts doubts on his eligibility for a first team place with the Reds. Siddeek’s participation was a result of the red card awarded to right-back Islam El Shater, who was given his marching orders in Ahly’s previous match against ENPPI.

Mahmoud Saad, Zamalek’s interim head coach who will be assistant to incoming coach Henri Michel, deserves commendation for holding his team together following a disappointing first half in which the Meet Okba’s club conceded two goals and missed a penalty. An inspiring second half performance indicates that Zamalek may just be getting back on track. On the other hand, Manuel Jose botched an initial substitution in which the embarrassingly inadequate Mohamed Siddeek came on for Shawky, only for the Portuguese coach to sub him out for Ahmed Hassan. Jose’s second half substitutions helped Ahly regain control of the match, however, with Tarek El Said and Ahmed Hassan playing a crucial role in throttling Zamalek’s onslaught in search of an equalizer.

Perhaps this result managed to disappoint both fans of the clubs. Ahly supporters were hoping for a meatier end result as the team continues to ride a wave of euphoria following a spectacular year in achievements and upcoming centennial celebrations. While Zamalek fans ought to rejoice at the resurgence of spirit in the team, the defeat will certainly be a disappointment after a refreshing victory against Haras Al Hodoud a few days ago. Supporters of both of the Cairo giants should spare their teams though, as a long league campaign and extraordinary injury levels hampered both sides.

It remains to be said that the game’s atmosphere was rather wanting, with a limited number of fans attending the game, owing to Eid celebrations and exorbitant ticket prices imposed by Zamalek’s board.