Zamalek secure CAF Champions League group-stage place with victory over APR FC

Zamalek SC have qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage after a 1-0 win over APR FC at Cairo International Stadium, completing a 2-0 aggregate victory.

Ahmed Sherif gave the Egyptian side the perfect start by scoring in the opening minute. The goal matched Zamalek’s result from the first leg and ensured they progressed to the next stage of the competition.

APR FC were caught out almost immediately, leaving the Rwandan side with a difficult task from the outset. After the early breakthrough, the tempo dropped and Zamalek used their experience to control their two-goal advantage through to half-time.

The visitors returned from the interval with greater attacking intent as they searched for a way back into the tie. However, Zamalek’s defence held firm and restricted APR FC’s efforts to reduce the deficit.

APR FC came close to reopening the contest in the 76th minute when a powerful direct free-kick struck the crossbar behind El Mahdi Soliman. It proved to be their clearest opportunity of the match.

Zamalek remained composed during the closing stages and held on for the final whistle. The result takes the club back into the top 16 in Africa for the first time since 2023.