Trezeguet on target as Al Ahly edge past Ceramica Cleopatra in Egyptian Premier League

Al Ahly secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ceramica Cleopatra in the 7th round of the Egyptian Premier League at Cairo International Stadium on Friday, with Mahmoud Hassan ‘Trezeguet’ scoring the only goal of the match.

The Red Eagles dominated possession from the outset but were wasteful in front of goal, squandering several promising opportunities.

Trezeguet broke the deadlock in the 26th minute with a brilliant strike from inside the area, sending the ball into the far corner to give Al Ahly a deserved lead.

Despite their dominance in the first half, Al Ahly struggled to convert their possession into clear-cut chances.

Trezeguet came close to doubling the advantage shortly after the break, latching onto a superb assist from Achraf Bencharki.

His first-time shot, however, was well saved by Ceramica Cleopatra goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam, who also controversially claimed the ball had not crossed the line.

Interim coach Emad El-Nahhas made key substitutions to refresh his attacking options, bringing on Aliou Dieng and Hussein El-Shahat for Mohamed Sherif and Trezeguet.

He later introduced Omar Kamal and Nejc Gradisar to replace Taher Mohamed and Bencharki.

Substitute Gradisar nearly sealed the win three minutes from time, connecting with a brilliant pass from El-Shahat, only for Bassam to deny him with a crucial save that deflected the ball out for a corner.

Ceramica Cleopatra pushed for an equaliser in the second half but were unable to break down Al Ahly’s defence, and the match ended 1-0 in favour of the hosts.

With the win, Al Ahly moved to nine points after six matches and will face Haras El Hodoud in the 8th round of the Egyptian Premier League on Tuesday.