Egyptian Football Association (EFA) President Samir Zaher has hailed the sporting morals of Zamalek supporters following their 2-1 defeat to ENPPI in the Egypt Cup final.

“The association was worried the crowds would riot after the defeat but they appeared responsible and civilised,” Zaher was quoted as saying on the association’s official website.

Holding the match was a challenge for security forces as it occurred two days after deadly clashes between the army and Coptic protesters at Maspero that left at least 25 dead and more than 300 injured.

Hooliganism has increased in Egyptian stadiums since the security vacuum following the January 25 Revolution that ousted former president Hosni Mubarak.

There have been pitch invasions and clashes between supporters and police, and especially between police and hardcore supporters groups such as Zamalek’s Ultras White Knights and Ahly’s Ultras Ahlawy.