CAF Confederation Cup: Zamalek earn valuable draw away to Otoho

Zamalek returned from Congo with a precious 1–1 draw against Otoho, taking a big step towards the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals in Saturday’s quarterfinal first leg.

The Egyptian side had to dig deep after falling behind early but showed character to respond before the break.

Otoho struck first in the 13th minute when Charles Atibo Kondi unleashed a powerful free-kick from the edge of the area, punishing a foul committed by Chico Banza. The fierce effort flew past the wall and left the Zamalek goalkeeper with no chance, sending the home crowd into celebrations.

Zamalek, however, refused to let the half end on a negative note. In the 31st minute, Ahmed Rabia clipped a long, intelligent pass in behind the defence for Palestinian forward Oday Dabbagh, who controlled well before smashing a low shot into the net to level the score.

From there, the Whites managed the game smartly, limiting Otoho’s chances and protecting a result that leaves them in a strong position. A goalless draw or any home win in the second leg in Cairo next week will be enough to send Zamalek into the last four of the competition.
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