Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt’s reigning champions Al Ahly SC delivered a decisive statement in the title race on Tuesday, defeating ENPPI SC 3-0 in the sixth round of the final phase of the Egyptian Premier League, keeping their slim championship hopes alive heading into the season’s closing stretch.
Fast start sets the tone for Ahly The match opened with immediate intensity as Hussein El Shahat struck early, finishing a sharp solo move after just eight minutes to give Ahly the perfect start. The early breakthrough forced ENPPI onto the back foot, with the champions dictating tempo and controlling possession from the outset.
Penalty doubles the lead as dominance grows Ahly’s pressure paid off again in the 20th minute when they were awarded a penalty after El Shahat was brought down inside the box. Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed stepped up and converted confidently, extending the lead and reinforcing Ahly’s control over the match. At that stage, the champions looked firmly in command, exploiting spaces in ENPPI’s defensive line.
Bencharki seals the win early in the second half The result was effectively put beyond doubt just two minutes after the restart when Achraf Bencharki added a third goal from close range, finishing a well-worked attacking move involving Emam Ashour. The goal capped a dominant attacking performance and ensured Ahly would not face late pressure.
VAR drama and missed chances shape first half ENPPI briefly thought they had a route back into the match when they were awarded a penalty in first-half stoppage time, but VAR overturned the decision due to an earlier foul. Moments later, they also saw a goal disallowed for offside after another review, deepening their frustration before halftime.
Injuries disrupt Ahly’s rhythm Despite their control, Ahly suffered setbacks as Ahmed Ramadan was forced off early with injury, followed later by concerns over El Shahat and Emam Ashour, who also left the pitch after physical problems. These interruptions did little to change the outcome but raised concerns ahead of the final fixtures.
Title race remains finely balanced The victory keeps Ahly in third place on 50 points, still within reach of the title but dependent on results elsewhere. Leaders Zamalek sit on top after a narrow win over Smouha, while Pyramids FC remain second after dropping points in a 1-1 draw with Ceramica Cleopatra.
Final day drama awaits Ahly’s season now heads toward a dramatic conclusion. They will face Al Masry on May 20 at Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria, needing a win and hoping for slip-ups from both Zamalek and Pyramids FC to complete a late title turnaround.
What once looked like a fading campaign has now become a tense three-way finish, with the championship set to be decided on the final matchday.
