Mostafa Shalaby netted his first goal in Zamalek’s shirt to hand the White Knights a hard-fought victory against Pyramids who received their first league defeat of the season.
As both sides entered the game with just goal-difference separating them, the victory sent Zamalek to second place temporarily with 14 points, one away from league leaders, Al Ahly who will be facing Ittihad of Alexandria on Monday.
Shalaby gave Zamalek a stunning start to their game as he broke the deadlock after three minutes. Ahmed Sayed Zizo’s short corner found the former ENPPI striker around the edge of the penalty area who sent a right-footed effort into Ahmed El-Shennawy’s net.
Pyramids had a much better advantage for the rest of the game, as they pushed harder for an equalizer. Mohamed Hamdy could have equalized for Takis Gonias’ men however his deflected effort inched Mohamed Awad’s post.
Former Zamalek winger Mostafa Fathi had another opportunity to bring Pyramids level after receiving a ball from Ramadan Sobhi, however, once again it went wide as the first half ended in Zamalek’s advantage.
Pyramids continued their domination in the second half. Fakhry Lakay’s header couldn’t find Awad’s net, before Fathi couldn’t beat Zamalek’s goalie with his striking effort.
Awad was Zamalek’s hero for the remaining minutes of the game with two very late saves on Ali Gabr to claim the Man of the Match award and seal the second successive victory for Zamalek.
