The Egyptian League Cup group-stage contest at Arab Contractors Stadium on Friday began with both teams taking a careful approach, prioritizing structure over risk in the early exchanges.
The Egyptian League Cup group-stage contest at Arab Contractors Stadium on Friday began with both teams taking a careful approach, prioritizing structure over risk in the early exchanges.
Ceramica Cleopatra created the first notable moments, but Nigerian wide player Sodiq Awujoola failed to make the most of a promising situation, while striker Marwan Othman also could not capitalize on an early opening.
Al Ahly gradually found their rhythm and started probing through midfield, looking to unsettle a disciplined opposing back line.
Ahmed Reda tried his luck in the 22nd minute with a fierce strike from a distance, yet the attempt was repelled by organized defending rather than the goalkeeper.
Moments later, Mohamed Sherif attempted to threaten from open play, but his effort drifted off target, resulting in a corner instead of a breakthrough.
Sustained pressure eventually paid off in the 35th minute when a delivery from Omar Kamal found Taher Mohamed Taher, who guided a header into the net to put the holders ahead.
Just before the interval, Sherif came close to extending the advantage, unleashing a close-range shot that forced Bassam into action, with the goalkeeper diverting the ball away for another set piece.
The first half ended with Al Ahly in control, though the margin remained slim.
After the restart, Ceramica Cleopatra pushed higher up the pitch in search of an equalizer, attempting to test the back line with increased urgency.
Despite the pressure, Al Ahly remained compact and denied clear chances, preserving their advantage through disciplined defensive work.
Head coach Jess Thorup used the second period to rotate his squad, bringing on young players Omar Mowad, Hamza Abdelkarim, and Ibrahim Adel to add energy and manage workloads in the secondary tournament.
The substitutions helped maintain balance as Al Ahly saw out a 1-0 success to secure three points in the group stage.
