Report By captin Reda Seka technical manager

Al Ahly revived their season with a heavy 3–0 win over Al Zamalek in the Cairo derby… but Al Zamalek remain the top title favorites despite the defeat

In one of the most thrilling derbies of the season, Al Ahly managed a big 3–0 victory over their traditional rival Al Zamalek at the Cairo International Stadium, in a match that carried a special meaning for the Red Devils, who have been going through a difficult season marked by inconsistent results and early exits from several competitions.

Although the win came with a clean sheet of three goals, its impact went beyond the three points, giving Al Ahly a much‑needed boost in morale and returning part of the lost confidence within the team and its fanbase.

Al Ahly: returning spirit after a period of confusion

Al Ahly delivered a cohesive team performance, characterized by disciplined defending and efficient attacking play – a combination the side had been missing for a long time. Moroccan winger Achraf Bencharki shone with a brace, while Hossam “El‑Shahat” added the third goal, underlining that the Red Devils can still show their historical character when conditions are right.

The victory brought Al Ahly back into the spotlight, but it did not change the objective picture of the title race, as the club still sits in third place with 47 points, behind both Al Zamalek and Pyramids FC.

Al Zamalek: a harsh loss, but they are still top title contenders

Despite the heavy defeat, Al Zamalek remain – from a tactical and logical standpoint – the most likely champions, thanks to their relative stability throughout the season, their advantage on points, and their ability to recover quickly after setbacks.

The loss to Al Ahly exposed clear weaknesses, but it does not erase the fact that Al Zamalek retain the greatest readiness to clinch the title, provided they reclaim their balance in the next two rounds.

Pyramids: strong challenger, but lacking consistency

Pyramids continue to enjoy a good campaign, but they suffer from inconsistent level, which makes them the second favorite behind Al Zamalek. The team owns quality players, yet has failed to impose a true “champion’s personality” in the decisive moments.

Al Ahly: big win, but the road is still long

Despite their impressive performance against Al Zamalek, Al Ahly remain the third favorite in the title race, given their points gap, fluctuating form over the season, and earlier exits from several major competitions. However, the derby victory could become a turning point ahead of the season’s end and the start of a rebuilding phase.

The victory’s impact: calming nerves, restoring confidence, and opening a new chapter

Analysts stressed that winning the derby carries major psychological value for Al Ahly, as it eased the pressure on the players and coaching staff, restored calm within the management, and opened the door to a new phase of reorganizing the squad.

They also pointed out that the collective performance and fighting spirit Al Ahly showed against Zamalek reflect the beginning of a shift in direction after a period of angry fan reactions and harsh criticism.

Summary of the title picture

  • Al Zamalek: top title favorite

  • Pyramids: second favorite

  • Al Ahly: third favorite, despite the big win

And the derby, for all its drama and intensity, remains just one milestone in a complex season, whose final rounds will ultimately define who emerges as the true champion.