Zamalek vs Abu Qair Semad

Zamalek's title defence is off to a shaky start, and this early clash with newly-promoted Abu Qir Semad is a chance to find some momentum. The reigning Egyptian Premier League champions, who won a dramatic 15th title last term, are still without a league win, while Abu Qir Semad have impressed in their first taste of the top flight. Zamalek have drawn both league games so far, 0-0 with Al-Ittihad Alexandria and 2-2 with National Bank of Egypt, with forward Nasser Mansi and goalkeeper Mahdi Soliman among the bright spots. Abu Qir Semad stunned onlookers by beating Pharco 4-1 and Smouha 1-0, before a 2-0 defeat to Pyramids brought them back down to earth. The two sides have met once before, in the 2024-25 Egypt Cup, where Zamalek won 2-0 through goals from Zizo and Mostafa Shalaby. Expect Zamalek's superior quality to eventually tell in front of goal. Our prediction: 3-0