Ismaily suffer opening-day defeat as Masar make winning start in Egyptian second tier

Ismaily began their Egyptian Professional League campaign with a disappointing 3-1 defeat by Masar, as the second-tier competition got under way with five matches on Thursday.

The Professional League, Egypt’s second division, is being contested with promotion to the Egyptian Premier League next season as the prize for three teams. Ismaily’s opening fixture ended in frustration, with Masar taking control before securing all three points.

Masar moved ahead when Samir Balia converted a penalty. Their advantage was doubled by Ahmed El-Shamy, who added the home side’s second goal.

Ismaily, known as the Darawish, were given a route back into the match when Anwar Saqr scored from the penalty spot. However, Masar restored their two-goal cushion through substitute Mohamed Hambouzo, who completed the scoring at 3-1.

The result gave Masar an early boost at the start of the promotion race, while Ismaily were left to reflect on a negative opening to their campaign.

Elsewhere, Terسانة began with a narrow victory over El Sekka El Hadid. Awad Tehami scored the only goal of the match to secure a 1-0 win.

Maleya Kafr El Zayat also made a winning start, beating Dairut 2-0. George opened the scoring before Omar Saudi added the second goal to confirm victory.

Tanta came from behind to defeat Taim 2-1. Taim took the lead through Ali Sobhi, but Tanta responded with goals from Karim Osama and Talba Mohamed to claim the points.

The remaining fixture saw Pharco beat Proxy by a single goal. Mohamed El-Desouky scored the decisive goal for Pharco.

The new Professional League season began with five matches on Thursday, with the campaign ultimately set to determine the three clubs that will earn promotion to the Egyptian Premier League next season. Ismaily’s defeat against Masar was therefore an early setback in their attempt to challenge for one of those places, while the opening victories for Masar, Terسانة, Maleya Kafr El Zayat, Tanta and Pharco provided those clubs with an immediate advantage.