Egypt Cup Shock: Ceramica Cleopatra Knockout Zamalek as Holders Crumble

Match Report

The reigning champions bow out in the round of 16.

Zamalek were eliminated from Egypt Cup in round of 16, losing 2-1 to Ceramica Cleopatra at Suez Canal Authority Stadium on Tuesday.

Ceramica led in the 18th minute when a deflection off Hussein Abdel Megid put the ball into his own net clearly, and Mohammed Ismail equalized just before halftime after a defensive mix-up.

Ahmed Belhaj sealed the win in the 70th minute with a powerful shot from outside the box, while Sidiq Ejoola missed a penalty at the 60th minute.

Zamalek mounted late pressure but could not find the winner as Ceramica held on to advance.

Ceramica will meet Talaea El Gaish in the quarterfinals; the winner then faces Z in the semifinals.

Zamalek were the cup holders; their run ends with a knockout that stings but teaches.

(Boom)

(Target)