The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released a comprehensive report on the highly anticipated Cairo Derby between Al Ahly and Zamalek, scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the Cairo International Stadium. The match is part of the Egyptian Premier League's sixth round. CAF highlighted that the two Egyptian giants have a long history, with 132 previous encounters.
According to CAF, Al Ahly holds a historical advantage with 52 wins compared to Zamalek's 29 victories, while 51 matches have ended in a draw. Despite Zamalek winning the Egyptian Premier League last season, Al Ahly had a better record against their opponents in two league matches, winning 2-1 and 3-0. Zamalek's coach, Emaded Jammal, aims to build on last season's success and secure a win against Al Ahly.
Al Ahly's new coach, Hussein Amotta, will have his first taste of the Cairo Derby after joining the team last summer. Amotta, the second African non-Egyptian coach to lead Al Ahly after Pitso Musimani, targets replicating his predecessor's impressive record against Zamalek, which included three wins and one draw in four matches. CAF also noted that several players from both teams will be under the spotlight during the match.
CAF highlighted that Zamalek's goalkeeper, Mohamed El-Shenawy, has been impressive this season, conceding only one goal. The team's attack will likely be led by Palestinian striker, Odai Dabbagh, and Angolan winger, Chico Banza. On the other hand, Al Ahly relies on their Moroccan attacking duo, consisting of Ashraf Ben Sharqi and Soufiane Bendiddich.
Ben Sharqi has previously scored four goals against Zamalek, his former team, while Bendiddich is yet to score his first goal in the Egyptian Premier League. Imad Ashour, a highly popular player among Al Ahly fans, is expected to lead the team's midfield. The two teams currently have 13 points each, with Zamalek leading Al Ahly on goal difference.
The Egyptian Premier League is structured in two phases, with the top six teams competing for the title and the remaining teams fighting to avoid relegation. CAF also mentioned that the league's top team, Pyramids, has a perfect record with 15 points. The Cairo Derby is a crucial match for both teams as they aim to improve their standings.
The highly anticipated match between Al Ahly and Zamalek promises to be an exciting encounter, given the two teams' rich history and current form. With several players under the spotlight, the match is expected to be a thrilling experience for fans and neutrals alike. The two teams will face off at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
Key points
- Al Ahly holds a historical advantage with 52 wins compared to Zamalek's 29 victories.
- Zamalek's coach, Emaded Jammal, aims to build on last season's success and secure a win against Al Ahly.
- The match is part of the Egyptian Premier League's sixth round and will take place at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
