As anticipation builds among Egyptian football fans, Zamalek prepares to face Ceramica Cleopatra in a crucial showdown in the Egyptian Premier League. Scheduled for Friday evening, May 9, 2025, this match marks the fifth round of the league and is essential for both teams as they strive to improve their standings.
Zamalek enters the match sitting in third place on the league table with 40 points, having achieved 11 wins, 7 draws, and 3 losses over 21 matches. Meanwhile, Ceramica Cleopatra occupies the sixth position with 30 points from 20 matches, boasting 8 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses. The stakes are high as Zamalek looks to solidify its position in the title race, while Ceramica aims for a positive result to enhance their competitive prospects.
The match will kick off at 5:00 PM local time at the Arab Contractors Stadium, providing a thrilling opportunity for fans to witness an intense clash that could significantly impact the league standings.
In preparation for this pivotal encounter, Zamalek's new head coach, Ayman El-Ramadi, has been focusing on the team’s tactical aspects and coordination. El-Ramadi, who replaced Portuguese coach Jesualdo Ferreira, is determined to secure a victory in his first official match in charge. "We need to capitalize on the opportunities that come our way and tighten our defense against Ceramica's key players," El-Ramadi stated, emphasizing the importance of a strong start under his leadership.
The expected lineup for Zamalek includes goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi, defenders Mahmoud Nentaij, Hossam Abdel-Majeed, Salah El-Din Mosadak, and Omar Gaber. In midfield, Nabil Emad Donga, Seif Farouk Gaafar, and Abd Allah El-Said will take charge, while the attacking trio will consist of Naser Maher, Mostafa Shalaby, and Naser Mansi. Shalaby returns after missing the previous match due to injury, bolstering Zamalek's attacking options.
On the other hand, Ceramica Cleopatra, led by coach Ali Maher, is also keen on securing a win to improve their league standing. The team’s lineup features goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam, defenders Ahmed Ramadan Beckham, Ragab Nabil, Ahmed Hani, and Mohamed Shokry. The midfield will comprise Mohamed Adel, Mohamed Tony, and Mohamed Reda Bobo, while the forward line includes Islam Eissa, Fakhri Lakai, and Marwan Othman.
With both teams eager to claim all three points, the match promises to be a fierce contest. Zamalek is particularly motivated to return to winning ways after experiencing a dip in form, which has seen them fall behind league leaders Al Ahly and Pyramids FC. The pressure is on El-Ramadi to deliver a positive result and restore faith among the fans.
In terms of injuries, Zamalek faces several absences, including Mahmoud Jihad, Mohamed Shahata, Ahmed Fetouh, Ahmed El-Ghafali, Shikabala, Hamza El-Mouthlouthi, and Ahmed Hamdi, who are all sidelined due to various injuries. Despite these setbacks, the team remains focused on executing their game plan effectively.
Fans can catch the live broadcast of this exciting match on the "On Sport 1" channel, which holds the exclusive rights to broadcast Egyptian Premier League matches. The channel will feature a comprehensive pre-match analysis to enhance the viewing experience for football enthusiasts.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the atmosphere is electric, with both sets of supporters eager to see their teams deliver a memorable performance. Will Zamalek rise to the occasion under new management, or will Ceramica Cleopatra spring a surprise? Stay tuned as the action unfolds.
