In an electrifying atmosphere at Geish Stadium in Burj Al Arab, Zamalek faced off against Haras El Hodoud on April 13, 2025, in a crucial match of the Egyptian Premier League. This clash marked the second round of the Nile League phase for the 2024-2025 season, with Zamalek aiming to close the gap on league leaders Pyramids.
The match kicked off at 7:00 PM Cairo time, drawing in a passionate crowd eager to support their teams. Zamalek, currently sitting in third place with 35 points, was looking to solidify its position and keep alive its hopes of claiming the title. On the other hand, Haras El Hodoud, positioned ninth with 22 points, was desperate for a positive result to escape the relegation zone.
As the first half unfolded, Zamalek started strong, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. The team, managed by José Peseiro, fielded a lineup featuring goalkeeper Mohamed Awad and a solid defense including Salah Masdaq, Mahmoud Hossam, and Hossam Abdel Maguid. The midfield was orchestrated by the experienced Abdullah El-Said, supported by players like Mohamed Shahat and Ahmed Fattouh.
In the early minutes, Zamalek's Sief El-Din El-Jaziri came close to breaking the deadlock with a header that sailed over the bar. The pressure continued to mount on Haras El Hodoud, who struggled to contain the attacking flair of Zamalek. Referee Mohamed Farouk issued yellow cards to both teams as tensions rose, notably for Haras El Hodoud's defender Mohamed Sami.
As the half approached its conclusion, Zamalek's persistence paid off. In the 44th minute, after a VAR review, the referee awarded Zamalek a penalty for a handball by Haras El Hodoud's Mohamed Farouk. Abdullah El-Said stepped up to take the spot-kick and coolly slotted the ball into the net, giving Zamalek a 1-0 lead just before halftime.
The first half ended with Zamalek leading 1-0, a scoreline that reflected their dominance in the match. As the teams headed to the locker rooms, the Zamalek fans erupted in cheers, hopeful for a continuation of their team's strong performance.
With the second half underway, Zamalek aimed to extend their lead while Haras El Hodoud sought to regroup and find an equalizer. The second half saw Haras El Hodoud making tactical changes, bringing in fresh legs to bolster their attack. However, Zamalek's defense remained resolute, thwarting several attempts by Haras El Hodoud to penetrate their lines.
As the clock ticked down, the tension in the stadium escalated. Haras El Hodoud, despite being a goal down, pushed forward, testing Zamalek's goalkeeper Mohamed Awad with a few long-range shots. The Zamalek defense, led by the sturdy Mahmoud Hossam, held firm under pressure.
Throughout the match, Zamalek's offensive play was characterized by quick passes and dynamic runs, particularly from winger Mustafa Shalaby, who was a constant threat on the flanks. Meanwhile, Haras El Hodoud's coach, Mohamed Youssef, urged his players to maintain their composure and capitalize on any defensive lapses from the opponents.
With the final whistle approaching, Zamalek remained focused, determined to secure all three points. The match concluded with Zamalek triumphing 1-0, a result that kept their title hopes alive and ensured they stayed within striking distance of Pyramids, who lead the league by 12 points.
This victory was crucial for Zamalek, especially after their recent exit from the Confederation Cup quarter-finals against South Africa's Stellenbosch FC. Fans celebrated the win as a much-needed morale boost, reinforcing their support for the team as they look to reclaim their position at the top of Egyptian football.
In terms of statistics, Zamalek dominated possession and created more chances, reflecting their attacking style under Peseiro. The match statistics showed Zamalek with 12 shots, 5 on target, while Haras El Hodoud managed only 4 shots, with just 1 reaching the target.
Looking ahead, Zamalek will need to build on this performance as they prepare for their next fixtures in the league. The team’s ability to convert chances and maintain defensive solidity will be key as they aim to challenge for the title in the remaining matches of the season. Meanwhile, Haras El Hodoud will need to regroup and focus on their upcoming games to ensure they can avoid relegation.
