Ahmed Sherif stars as Zamalek return to winning ways against Asyut Petroleum

Zamalek forward Ahmed Sherif said his side’s 1-0 victory over Asyut Petroleum was a welcome reward after playing three matches in 10 days.

Sherif scored the only goal at Borg El Arab Stadium to secure Zamalek’s fifth Egyptian Premier League win of the season and end their recent wait for a league victory.

“We played three matches in 10 days, but thankfully we secured the three points against Asyut Petroleum, which is what we wanted,” Sherif told On Sport.

The 26th-minute goal came after a serious defensive mistake by the Asyut Petroleum players. The result moved Zamalek up to third in the table on 16 points, while Sherif was named Player of the Match.

Asked about receiving the individual award, Sherif said: “Thankfully, it is the result of a great deal of hard work during the recent period.”

He also thanked the club’s supporters for their continued backing and expressed his hope that Zamalek could maintain their winning run.

“I thank the Zamalek fans for constantly supporting us, and hopefully the team will continue winning,” he said.

The goal was Sherif’s third in the league for Zamalek this season. Across all competitions, he has contributed to five goals, including two assists in the CAF Champions League.

The match was his eighth appearance for Zamalek this season. The forward had contributed to seven goals in 32 appearances for the club last season, and needs one more goal to match the four goals he scored during that campaign.

Zamalek will next face Rwandan Army on Saturday evening in the second leg of the CAF Champions League round of 32.