Zamalek edge Djibouti’s AS Port 2-1 in CAF Champions League opener

Egyptian giants Zamalek secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Djibouti’s AS Port in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary-round tie at Cairo Stadium on Friday.

The hosts made a fast start and established a two-goal advantage before AS Port pulled one back through a defensive mistake.

Zamalek will take their slender lead into the second leg on 12 September, when the two sides meet again in Egypt.

Shehata gives Zamalek early lead

Zamalek opened the scoring in the sixth minute following an impressive individual run from Shikabala Banza.

The Angolan attacker burst into the penalty area from the left before sending a cross towards the goal.

The AS Port goalkeeper failed to deal with the delivery, allowing the ball to fall to Mohamed Shehata, who calmly tapped into an empty net.

The early goal gave Zamalek control of the contest as they looked to build a comfortable advantage before the return fixture.

Banza doubles the advantage

Zamalek extended their lead nine minutes before half-time.

Ahmed Abdel Rahim delivered a corner from the right, with Banza rising above the defence to meet the cross.

The Angolan forward glanced his header towards the left corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance and making it 2-0.

Banza’s contribution proved decisive as Zamalek went into the interval firmly in control.

AS Port punish defensive error

The Djibouti side responded after the break and were handed a route back into the tie following an error from Ahmed Khedri.

The Zamalek player misplaced a pass, allowing Mahdi Hussein Mahabi to intercept the ball.

Mahabi took advantage of the opportunity, driving his effort beyond Mohamed Sobhi to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

AS Port were unable to find an equaliser, leaving Zamalek with a narrow advantage heading into the return match.

Zamalek face second-leg test

The Egyptian club will now look to finish the job when the sides meet again on 12 September.

Despite securing victory, Zamalek will be aware that AS Port’s away goal has given the Djibouti side hope of overturning the deficit in the second meeting.

The winner of the tie will continue its journey in Africa’s premier club competition as Zamalek seek to advance beyond the preliminary round.