Pyramids FC produced a stellar performance on Friday, January 31, 2025, defeating Zamalek 3-0 at the Air Defense Stadium, solidifying their position at the top of the Egyptian Premier League.
The win came courtesy of second-half goals from forward Fiston Mayele, midfielder Mostafa Fathi, and winger Ibrahim Adel. This decisive victory not only showcased Pyramids FC’s attacking prowess but also their defensive resilience, having extended their unbeaten run across all competitions.
Both teams entered the match with high expectations, as Pyramids FC led the league with 21 points, just one point clear of their rivals. Zamalek, coming off a convincing 4-1 victory against El Gouna, aimed to reclaim the top spot. Coach Christian Gross retained his lineup following their impressive performance, whereas Pyramids FC was without suspended players like Ahmed El-Shenawy and Marwan Hamdi.
The first half saw limited clear chances from either side, with Zamalek nearly breaking the deadlock. Mostafa Shalaby connected with Nabil Emad’s pass, but Pyramids FC goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy thwarted the attempt with sharp reflexes, making a double save against both Shalaby and striker Seifeddine Jaziri.
Just before halftime, Zamalek's Abdallah El-Said was substituted due to injury, with Mohamed El-Sayed stepping onto the pitch. This adjustment did little to shift the momentum, as Coach Krunoslav Jurcic of Pyramids FC made his tactical play, introducing Ramadan Sobhi for Ahmed Atef.
The breakthrough finally came just before the hour mark with Mayele's goal, showcasing his skill as he maneuvered past Zamalek’s Mahmoud 'El-Wensh' Hamdi to score from a tight angle. This opened the floodgates for Pyramids FC, putting them firmly on the offensive.
Six minutes later, Fathi doubled their lead, receiving a precise pass from Ibrahim Adel and slotting it past Zamalek's goalkeeper, Mohamed Awaad. The momentum was clearly with Pyramids, and they showed no signs of slowing down.
Seventy minutes in, Ibrahim Adel capped off the strong team performance with Pyramids' third goal, meeting Sobhi’s cross and finding the back of the net, leaving Zamalek struggling to respond. Gross's response was swift, bringing on Nasser Mansi and other changes to invigorate his side.
Despite their efforts, Zamalek could not capitalise on their opportunities. A late header from El-Wensh went over the bar after connecting with Ahmed Mahmoud's cross, followed by El-Sayed's long-range effort hitting the crossbar, symbolizing their day of missed chances.
With this result, Pyramids FC recorded only their second win over Zamalek since 2019, marking a significant achievement for the club. They now sit firmly atop the league table with 24 points. For Zamalek, the defeat means they have fallen to third place, now trailing behind defending champions Al Ahly, who rose to second on goal difference.
Overall, this match not only demonstrated Pyramids FC’s growing dominance within the league but also underlined Zamalek’s inconsistencies. Looking forward, both sides will be eager to capitalize on their momentum, with Pyramids aiming to maintain their lead and Zamalek striving to return to form.