Zamalek traveled to Alexandria to take on newly promoted Smouha S.C. and escaped with a last second victory thanks to Zamalek playmaker Shikabala. With what was essentially the last kick of the game Shikabala curved in a sweet free kick from about 30 yards out which snuck into the right side of the goal. The whole game Zamalek were searching for a goal, in some instances unlucky not to score and in the end a little left footed magic from Shikabala gave Zamalek the three points. Coming into Thursday's match Zamalek were sitting in 4th on seven points, four behind arch rivals Ahly, who won their match yesterday against Al Dakhleya. Smouha had not registered a win yet and still remain winless in the new season. Former Ajax star Mido was included in Hassan Shehata's squad list but did not make an appearance in the match. Amr Zaki showed what made him such a desirable European prospect by being active up front throughout the match. Overall The White Castle did not play a clean game deciding to go one on one too often with little results. It was a poor showing and surely would have been a loss against a stronger side. Shikabala was by far the most active player for both sides as he cut in from the right flank and got several shots off with his powerful left foot. Smouha looked as though they were going to steal two points from the Cairo powerhouse and even had a chance or two to get a goal and really put pressure on Zamalek. Ghanaian Godwin Attram was most dangerous for the Alexandria side and should have done better on one chance after he broke in free and faked a Zamalek defender but his close range shot sailed over the goal. Throughout the match neither side could find the quality needed to wrestle the game away but it was fitting that Shikabala, who was the biggest threat the entire night, broke the deadlock with a long range blast that kept Zamalek on pace with other title contenders Ahly and Ismaily. Zamalek now have ten points, behind leaders Ahly on eleven. Zamalek have a game in hand on both of their rivals. Based on this performance they will have to raise their level of play in order to stay in the championship picture. Smouha sit in 17th place with two points and still winless on the season. BM
