Ahly vs. Zamalek (Photo: Ahram Online archive)
The Egyptian Premier League race is heating up ahead of two postponed matches for Cairo giants Ahly and Zamalek.
Ahly are hosting Wadi Degla in a delayed game from matchday 21 while Zamalek head to Suez for matchday 31 game against Maqassa.
The two arch-rivals just gained pleasing home wins this weekend in the African Confederation Cup group stage openers.
Ahly celebrated a 3-0 home victory over Tunisia's Esperance in Group A Sunday, one day after Zamalek enjoyed a last minute 1-0 victory over another Tunisian team, Sfaxien, in Group B.
Zamalek are leading the league table bidding for their first trophy since 2004 with 77 points, nine before title holders Ahly.
"The Maqassa game will be very tough. They are a very powerful and organised team that combines very talented players in all positions," Ahly's football director told the club's website.
With only five games remaining, the Red Devils, who are bidding for their ninth successive title, have no option but to win all games and desperately wait for their rivals' league fall.
Zamalek have more game in hand and are enthusiastically looking forward to meet the champions, on 21 July, to prove their supremacy.
"We will be celebrating the league victory when we smash Ahly, and this is a promise," defender Islam Gamal stated.
The Whites who are shining under helm of Jusualdo Ferreira, will be missing midfielder Mohamed Shaaban due to a knock on his foot.
Second goalkeeper Mahmoud Abdel-Rehim "Gennesh" is also sidelined for a month due to hand injury, so only Mohamed Abou-Gabal will be available as an Ahmed El-Shennawy substitute.
Degla are sixth with 50 points while Maqassa are fourth with 58 points thanks to successful former Egypt assistant coach Hamada Sedky.
Two other games are to be held Thursday as Damanhour and Ismaily host El-Geish and Smouha respectively.
The next round will be tough, too, as on Monday Ahly meet rivals Masry while Zamalek will clash with Ismaily before they continue their African run.
All league matches are being held behind closed doors at 22:00 Cairo time (GMT+2) for the rest of the holy month of Ramadan.
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