Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Zamalek squandered an early lead and were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs in their CAF Confederation Cup group-stage clash at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium on Saturday, a result that tightens the race in Group D.
The Cairo giants entered the match buoyed by their opening-day victory over Zambia’s ZESCO United, and they appeared poised for another strong outing when Tunisian forward Seifeddine Jaziri struck just four minutes into the game. Rising to meet a well-placed free-kick delivery, Jaziri fired a controlled finish from inside the penalty area, giving Zamalek an ideal start and silencing the home crowd.
Kaizer Chiefs, however, responded immediately with an attacking flurry. Only three minutes after conceding, Uruguayan winger Gastón Sirino unleashed a powerful long-range effort that rattled the left post—an early warning sign for Zamalek’s defence. Jaziri nearly doubled the lead moments later, finishing a slick move in the 10th minute, but the goal was chalked off for offside.
As the first half wore on, the hosts settled into a rhythm, dominating possession and pinning Zamalek deep, though the Egyptian side held their shape well and limited Chiefs to half chances. Zamalek’s attacking threat diminished as the midfield battle swung in the South African side’s favour, but their defensive organisation ensured they carried the lead into halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Kaizer Chiefs pressing relentlessly while Zamalek struggled to carve out meaningful opportunities on the counter. The Cairo club’s back line absorbed wave after wave of pressure, and for most of the closing stages appeared on course to secure a valuable away victory.
But the match took a dramatic turn in stoppage time. With the fourth official signalling eight added minutes, Kaizer Chiefs pushed forward with urgency. In the dying seconds, Dillan Solomons whipped in a routine cross from the right flank that should have been easily handled. Instead, goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi misjudged the delivery, deflecting the ball into his own net and handing the hosts a late equaliser that left Zamalek players stunned.
The draw leaves Zamalek second in Group D with four points, two behind Egyptian rivals Al-Masry, who remain perfect after two matches. Kaizer Chiefs climb to third with one point, while ZESCO United, yet to register any points, sit at the bottom.
While Zamalek remain well positioned in the group, the dropped points in Johannesburg underline the fine margins of continental competition. With tougher fixtures ahead, the Cairo club will need to rediscover their cutting edge and avoid costly lapses if they hope to advance comfortably to the knockout rounds.
