Al Masry stumbles in pursuit of top spot after stalemate with Smouha

Al Masry’s hopes of mounting real pressure on leaders Al Ahly faded on Wednesday night after a goalless home draw against Smouha in the Egyptian Premier League’s eleventh round.

The Port Said side looked weary and uninspired, clearly showing signs of fatigue following last week’s CAF Confederation Cup fixture against Al Ittihad of Libya.

Under Tunisian coach Nabil Kouki, Al Masry increased their tally to 19 points, remaining third in the standings. Smouha, led by Ahmed Abdel Aziz, now sit eighth with 15 points after another solid defensive display.

The match offered little excitement, though Al Masry controlled much of the first half. Kouki’s decision to rotate his squad affected rhythm, but the introduction of Salah Mohsen and Algerian duo Abdel Rahim Daghmoum and Mondher Tamin provided a brief spark. Mustafa Abu Al-Khair later replaced Mahmoud Hamada as Al Masry pushed for a late winner.

Their best chance came when a fierce shot was denied by goalkeeper Ahmed Mihoub. Hossam Ashraf’s header rattled the crossbar, leaving Al Masry frustrated as their pursuit of Al Ahly’s lead momentarily stalled.