Turning heartbreak into glamour: A Zamalek story

It was an unforgettable week of highs and lows for Zamalek SC.  The Egyptian giants bounced back from a painful continental defeat to clinch the Egyptian Premier League title in dramatic fashion, sending their fans into raptures. The week began on a sour note at Cairo International Stadium. In front of a passionate full house, Zamaleksurrendered their CAF Confederation Cup title after a heart-breaking loss to Algeria’s USM Alger.  The defeat left supporters devastated, but the team responded in the best possible way just days later. Zamalek secured the league championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ceramica Cleopatra.  The win marked their 15th Egyptian Premier League title and their first since the 2021/22 season. They finished the campaign with 56 points, two clear of runners-up Pyramids FC.  Both clubs have now earned spots in next season’s CAF Champions League. Meanwhile, arch-rivals Al Ahly beat Al Masry 2-0 at Borg El Arab Stadium but still ended the season in third place with 53 points.  They will have to settle for the CAF Confederation Cup next season, the first time in 23 years that Al Ahly have failed to qualify for the Champions League. The victory over Ceramica also carried a sweet taste of revenge. The same side had knocked Zamalek out of the Egyptian Cup earlier this season. Ceramica finished the league in fourth place with 44 points. The title-deciding match was packed with tension. Ceramica were awarded a penalty, but Zamalekgoalkeeper Mohamed Awwad produced a brilliant save to deny Moroccan midfielder Ahmed Belhadj.  Videos circulating after the game appeared to show Belhadj gesturing to Awwad where he planned to shoot, sparking mockery and heated debate on social media, especially from rival fans. Nothing, however, could spoil the party for Zamaleksupporters. The post-match celebrations were spectacular, highlighted by a helicopter landing in the middle of the pitch to deliver the league shield. For many fans, this title feels extra special. Ahmed Radwan, a dedicated Zamalek supporter for over 30 years, called it the one closest to his heart. “This came in an exceptional season full of difficulties and instability,” Radwan said. “I liken this victory to a miracle,” he told The Gazette. He praised the players for stepping up despite a thin squad, noting that while their main rivals made huge signings, including taking one of Zamalek’s star players, Zamalek were battling serious administrative and financial challenges. Fellow supporter Ahmed Barakat expressed optimism for the future: “Zamalek, under these circumstances, is capable of bringing even more joy next season by winning the CAF Champions League. We deserve this celebration and many more titles.” Zamalek coach Moatamed Gamal dedicated the title to the fans who stood by the team through thick and thin. “I dedicate this title to Zamalek’s supporters who backed us strongly all season,” Gamal said.  “I had hoped to win the Confederation Cup for them too, and I felt deep sadness after that loss. But the players showed tremendous effort and took full responsibility to deliver the league title,” he added. Gamal also highlighted fans’ support as one of the key factors behind their success. Winning goalscorer Oday Dabbagh was equally emotional: “I feel immense joy winning the Egyptian Premier League with the White Knights. The players gave everything throughout the season, and I dedicate this title to our amazing fans. I’m especially happy to have scored the winning goal against Ceramica.” The post Turning heartbreak into glamour: A Zamalek story appeared first on Egyptian Gazette.