Egypt and Africa's biggest derby match returned on Saturday in Cairo with Al Ahly and Zamalek dueling to a 1-1 draw in the Nile Egyptian League.
A restrained first half saw the two rivals neutralize each other with a couple of half chances but nothing very eventful. The match began to heat up after halftime when Zamalek midfielder Nabil Dunga tested Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who reacted well to push away a header from close range.
But after former Zamalek star Achraf Bencharki came on for his Al Ahly debut at the hour mark, the match sprang into action. In the 72nd minute, Ahly striker Nejc Gradisar found space on the right flank and whipped in a perfect cross to find Bencharki at the far post who stooped down to head in the bouncing service.
It appeared that one goal would make the difference, particularly after a former Zamalek star came back to haunt The White Castle. However the reigning CAF Confederation Cup champions fought back.
In the 84th minute, Zamalek substitute Nasser Mansi received a free kick at the edge of the Al Ahly penalty area and found Omar Gaber on the right wing. El Shenawy got a hand to the experienced fullback's low cross but the ball slipped through to the far post where left back Mahmoud Bentayg was left with a simple finish into the empty net.
Video: Al Ahly 1-1 Zamalek full match highlights
Zamalek did not gain ground on their rivals in the standings but will be pleased to have played the role of spoiler on the day. Al Ahly move back to first place but are likely to be overtaken by Pyramids FC when they host El Gaish on Sunday. Zamalek are five points back of both clubs in third place.
Earlier in the day, Al Masry and Ismaily played to a 0-0 draw. In the other early match, El Gouna defeated struggling Ceramica Cleopatra 2-0 to continue Gouna's rise from the bottom of the table.
League Table (Top-5)
GP | Points | |
Al Ahly | 15 | 33 |
Pyramids FC | 14 | 33 |
Zamalek | 15 | 28 |
Al Ahly Bank | 15 | 25 |
Al Masry | 15 | 24 |
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