Clash of the Pharaohs: Can Zamalek Edge Al Ahly in the UAE Showdown?
8 November 2025
Jaziri Poised to Lead Zamalek’s Attack in the Final
The Tunisian striker Saeed Din Al-Jaziri is closing in on a starting role for Zamalek as they prepare for the Egyptian Super Cup against Al Ahly in the UAE. Team insiders say the coach, Ahmed Abdel Raouf, held targeted sessions with Al-Jaziri to motivate him and deliver tactical guidance ahead of the showpiece.
Al-Jaziri is viewed as the closest option to spearhead the White Knights’ attack in the final, thanks to his derby-tested experience and his ability to pounce on chances in the box when it counts.
Debagh’s Status Remains Unclear Ahead of the Showdown
Meanwhile, Adi Al-Dabagh’s position is still shrouded in mystery, even though he has taken part in group training and received medical clearance. The final call on his involvement—whether in the starting XI or on the bench—has not been made yet and could hinge on fitness and tactical needs.
From Semis to Showdown: Build-Up and National Team Bits
The Egyptian Super Cup is already loaded with subplots. Zamalek advanced past Pyramids on penalties (5-4) after a goalless 90 minutes, while Al Ahly toppled Ceramica Cleopatra 2-1. As the final approaches, the technical staff is weighing whether Debagh is needed from the first whistle or as an impact option later in the game.
The coach stressed that the final decision will be taken in the morning ahead of kickoff, aiming to field the most physically and mentally ready lineup for the decisive clash.
The Nasser Maher Conundrum
Inside the delegation, Abdel Nasser Mohamed, the club’s general secretary, reportedly spoke with Nasser Maher and urged him to drop the issue of not making the national team squad and to focus on the Super Cup. There is no clarity yet on whether any fine will be levied, and timing suggests quiet resolution rather than public drama.
On the other side, Al Ahly’s camp reportedly held meetings with certain upset players who felt snubbed by the national team selection, urging them to close the matter and concentrate on winning the trophy.
Coach’s View
Abdel Raouf explained that Zamalek’s preparations involved two main strands: securing a spot in the final by beating Pyramids and then focusing on lifting the title itself. He highlighted a successful response to the demands of the semi-final, with the team full of confidence entering the final stage of the campaign.
He also touched on Nasser Maher’s disappointment at not being selected for Egypt’s squad, saying the player has every right to be upset, while affirmingMaher’s quality and his belief that he will show his best in the final itself. The national team’s November training camp in the UAE is part of broader plans for AFCON 2025 in Morocco and a 2026 World Cup push.
National Team List Context
The squad list features a mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and attackers—an attempt to balance local and abroad-based players as Egypt eyes continental competition. The list underscores the federation’s goal of crafting a cohesive unit for the autumn friendlies and the AFCON qualifier slate ahead.
Historically, the Super Cup has been a stage where both clubs show their pedigree: Al Ahly has the edge with 15 titles to Zamalek’s four, and the finals between them have often defined the season’s narrative. This edition promises a dramatic chapter in the rivalry, with both teams eager to stamp their dominance on one of Africa’s premier derbies.
