Al Ahly beat Zamalek to move top of Egyptian Premier League

Al Ahly claimed a 2-0 victory over rivals Zamalek in the Egyptian Premier League derby on Sunday, moving temporarily to the top of the table.

The result lifted Al Ahly to 16 points after six matches, although their position could change depending on the outcome of Pyramids’ meeting with Ceramica Cleopatra. Zamalek, the defending champions, remain third on 13 points.

Al Ahly controlled much of the opening half and took the lead in the 39th minute. Mohamed Hany struck from distance to give his side the advantage after a dominant start.

Zamalek improved significantly after the interval, with Chico Banza providing a particular threat as the champions increased the pressure. They came close to levelling on several occasions, but Al Ahly goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced a series of important saves to preserve his team’s lead.

Al Ahly then secured the points in the 80th minute when Monsef Bekar doubled their advantage with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area.

The victory gave Al Ahly the upper hand in one of Egyptian football’s biggest fixtures and kept them ahead of the chasing teams, at least until Pyramids face Ceramica Cleopatra.