The defending champions have now stretched their winning run to six games, amassing a total of 39 points from 17 games, 17 points behind leaders Pyramids FC, who have played six more matches.

On the other hand, Ittihad of Alexandria remain winless for the fourth consecutive league game, their last victory coming against Arab Contractors on 11 May.

The first half was a one-sided affair, with Ahly dominating over 70 percent of ball possession but failing to break through Ittihad’s packed defense. Mahmoud Kahraba, making his first start since 11 May against Baladiyet El Mahalla, came close to scoring twice. He couldn’t control the ball after skipping his last marker in the 18th minute and missed the target from close range in the 30th minute.

The Red Devils came back more determined after the break. Akram Tawfik scored a goal that was disallowed due to a foul during the build-up, and Abdel-Kader blasted the ball over the bar from inside the six-yard box.

In the 68th minute, Hussein El Shahat made a brilliant dribble on the right flank and found Kahraba inside the box to finally give Ahly a well-deserved lead.

Ittihad’s best chance came from a corner that wasn’t properly cleared by keeper Mohamed El Shennawy, but Seif Takka’s volley went just over the bar.

Ahly will play Dakhleya on Friday in their last fixture before the Cairo derby against Zamalek on 25 June.

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