Zamalek, Ismaily relentless in race for second

CAIRO (GoPharaohs.com) - The race for second place in the Egyptian Premier League rages on between Zamalek and Ismaily as week 26 comes to an end. Ismaily remains in the lead with 58 points, two points ahead of Zamalek.

The two rivals drew 2-2 in their postponed week 22 match. Zamalek has four games remaining in the 30 week league while Ismaily, who had already played - and won - their week 28 match against Haras Al-Hodoud, has only three.

Zamalek is scheduled to play against Haras Al-Hodoud, Ittehad, Al-Ahly and Al-Masry who are ranked 4th, 12th, 1st and 13th, respectively as of week 26. Needless to say, the Ahly game is always a tough match for Zamalek, especially in the past few years. Also, Ittehad and Al-Masry will be putting up a fight as they are near the bottom and will not want to put their fate in the hands of others’ results.

Ismaily has similar challenges ahead of them as they will be facing Suez Cement, Ittehad and Ahly in their last three matches.

Neither Zamalek nor Ismaily can afford to rely on the other fumbling, so the last few weeks of the league could prove to be the most exciting yet. Second place in the Egyptian Premier League guarantees participation in the African Confederations Cup, which is the primary motivation for both teams.