ENPPI edged closer to a place in the Egyptian Premier League final phase after scoring late to secure a 1-0 victory over Bani Suef Telephones on Tuesday.

Promising midfielder Mahmoud Abdel-Moneim "Kahraba", who was one of Egypt's best performers in their triumphant U-20 African Championship campaign in March, notched the winner with 10 minutes remaining.

ENPPI, who are enjoying a fine run under coach Tarek El-Ashry, have 26 points from 13 matches, four behind Group A leaders Ahly who have a game in hand.

Title holders Ahly had already secured their place in the final mini-league, leaving ENPPI to battle it out with the likes of Smouha and Haras El-Hodoud for the remaining qualifying spot.

ENPPI are six points clear of third-placed Smouha with three matches remaining. El-Hodoud, who lost 2-1 to Ahly on Sunday, are third with 16 points but have a game in hand on ENPPI and Smouha.

The top two in Groups A and B will qualify for the final round, where a mini-league with only home fixtures will be held to determine the champion.

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