Egyptian football giants Al Ahly and Zamalek SC are set to face off in a friendly match in Iraq this March.
The highly anticipated encounter will be part of a broader initiative by Iraqi authorities to promote Baghdad as the Arab Tourism Capital and mark the launch of the first-ever Baghdad Cup.
Historic clash on neutral ground
The Cairo-based rivals will meet for the fourth time this season when they take the pitch in Iraq on March 13.
The match follows previous encounters in the African Super Cup, the Egyptian Super Cup, and the Egyptian Premier League, with their last meeting ending in a 1-1 draw.
This latest showdown comes as part of a diplomatic and sporting collaboration between Egypt and Iraq, with both nations eager to use football as a means to foster cultural and sporting ties.
Iraqi officials reportedly reached out to their Egyptian counterparts to organize the event, seeing it as a golden opportunity to bring two of Africa’s most successful clubs together on Iraqi soil.
More than just a friendly
Despite its exhibition status, the match is expected to generate significant interest from football fans across the region.
Al Ahly, Africa’s most decorated club, and Zamalek, its fiercest domestic rival, have a long-standing history of intense encounters that transcend mere competition.
Their passionate fan bases and history of thrilling, high-stakes clashes make any meeting between the two sides a spectacle.
Both clubs will also see this as an opportunity to fine-tune their squads ahead of crucial domestic and continental fixtures.
With the Egyptian Premier League title race heating up and the CAF Champions League entering a decisive phase, this match offers a valuable chance for players to gain momentum.
Significance for Baghdad
Hosting a fixture of this magnitude is a symbolic moment for Iraq, which has been working to re-establish itself as a viable destination for major sporting events.
Designating Baghdad as the Arab Tourism Capital is part of a broader effort to enhance the city’s global profile and attract international attention.
By bringing two of Africa’s most iconic clubs to Iraq, the organizers hope to boost sports tourism and showcase the country’s ability to host high-profile matches.
A spectacle awaits
While no official confirmation has been issued regarding the venue, the match is expected to take place at one of Baghdad’s premier stadiums.
Given the history and fierce rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek, fans can expect an intense and entertaining encounter—regardless of the fact that it’s a friendly.
For football lovers, this match will be another chapter in the legendary Al Ahly-Zamalek rivalry, played on an unfamiliar but meaningful stage.
