Zamalek suffer surprise defeat ahead of CAF Confederation Cup final

06/05/2024 13:59

Smouha inflicted a surprise 1-0 on Zamalek in an Egyptian Premier League clash at the Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria on Sunday evening.

A second-half goal from Nigerian winger Abubakar Liadi earned the three points for Smouha, while Zamalek saw a late equaliser from Seifeddine Jaziri ruled out due to offside.

The result snapped a three-game winning streak for the White Knights, as they suffered a first defeat since March 12.

“We dominated the game but we couldn’t convert our possession and dominance into goals," said Zamalek manager Jose Gomes. "We had a good game but that is football. Sometimes you play a good game, but you don't win.”

Smouha's victory came despite them playing with 10 men, after a controversial sending off of striker Hossam Hassan from referee Mahmoud El Banna.

“I have much respect for the referee but he didn’t have a good game tonight. We deserved a penalty but instead of that he sent off Hossam Hassan,” said Smouha manager Ahmed Samy.

The White Knights are 12th in the table with 24 points after suffering their fifth loss this season, while Smouha sits sixth with 31 points.

Zamalek will next be in action in the CAF Confederation Cup final, as they travel to Morocco to face RS Berkane for the first leg on Sunday 12 May, with the return game in Egypt a week later.

Zamalek won the CAF Confederation Cup title in 2019 after defeating RS Berkane on penalties, celebrating their first African trophy since 2003.