Zamalek's 2-1 defeat to Harras Hodoud did not set alarm bells ringing ahead of their clash against arch rivals Ahli in next week's Cairo derby, coach Hossam Hassan said. The Egypt's all-time leading scorer failed to enjoy a winning debut after replacing Frenchman Henri Michel at Zamalek's helm as Hodoud handed them their third successive defeat. With the derby against leaders and defending champions Ahli looming and Zamalek just one point above the danger zone, talks about an unthinkable relegation to the second division began to surface. "We played well tonight against Hodoud and that fine display quelled any worries I had before meeting Ahli on Tuesday," Hassan, who enjoyed a glorious 15-year spell as a player with Ahli, told the post-match press conference. "I'm sure the team can overcome any problems before the Ahli clash, and all people will notice that Zamalek are improving." Hodoud took advantage of some slack defending from Zamalek's backline to claim all three points via two second-half goals from Ahmed Eid and Abdul-Salam Nagah.
Hodoud widen Zamalek misery The White Knights scored a consolation after Ahmed Magdi converted a stoppage-time penalty. "For the first time this season, people could see an organized Zamalek side, unlike the past when they were playing in a haphazard manner," Hossam added. "I also wish to greet Shikabala, whom I believe will be one of the best players in Egypt." Talented winger Shikabala hardly lived up to his potential due to some childish acts over the past two seasons which also cost him a place in Egypt's squad. He wasn't at his best against Hodoud, mainly due to the absence of regular strike duo Amr Zaki and Mido, who were ruled out of the game with injury and suspension respectively. Sherif Ashraf, who scored three goals so far this season, was fielded as a lone striker but he failed to impress. "The return of Mido and Zaki will make the difference. Their experience will benefit us in the upcoming period," Hassan commented.
