Ceramica Cleopatra showed determination and character as they pulled off a thrilling 1-0 victory against Arab Contractors on Friday night in the Egyptian Premier League.
Playing almost the entire game a man down, the team fought for every ball and left with three vital points that lifted spirits among their fans.
The drama began in the third minute when Amr El-Soulia pounced on a defensive error to give Ceramica the perfect start. The joy, however, quickly turned to worry when midfielder Amr Qalawa was shown a red card in the 18th minute after referee Mostafa El-Shahdy consulted VAR.
Arab Contractors sensed an opening and pressed forward but found goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam in inspired form. The biggest moment came in the 76th minute when VAR awarded a penalty to El Mokawloon. Mahmoud Abu Gouda stepped up, only for Bassam to dive the right way and deny him brilliantly.
The heroic save sealed Bassam’s Man of the Match award and preserved Ceramica’s narrow win. Coach Ali Maher’s men now sit fifth with seven points, while El Mokawloon remain on two.
