Zamalek knocked out of CAF Champions League after defeat at CR Belouizdad

Mahmoud Elassal , Friday 17 Mar 2023

Zamalek's quest for CAF Champions League glory has come to an early end for the third consecutive year after a 2-0 defeat against Algeria's CR Belouizdad on Friday.

Zamalek
Belouizdad (Algeria) vs. Zamalek (Egypt). Photo: Zamalek s official twitter account

 

CR Belouizdad's Zakaria Draoui and Leonel Wamba found the back of the net in the 75th and 79th minutes, respectively, securing a spot for their team in the quarterfinals of the continental competition.

Zamalek, who have been struggling to find their form throughout the tournament, remain at the bottom of Group D with just four points. The group leaders, Tunisia's Esperance, have secured ten points, followed by CR Belouizdad with nine points. With just one match remaining, Zamalek has no chance of qualifying for the next round.

Despite the team's desperate need for a win, Zamalek failed to create enough scoring opportunities throughout the game. Striker Seifeddine Jaziri came close in the 35th minute, robbing the ball from two defenders and going clear on target, only to be denied by the keeper.

However, it was the hosts who proved to be more clinical, as Draoui struck a brilliant shot from inside the area, followed by Wamba meeting a free kick at the far post to secure the victory in just four minutes.

Zamalek will now turn their attention to domestic competitions, hoping to finish the season on a high note after their disappointing CAF Champions League campaign.

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