Analysis The numbers behind the result
Zamalek edges tight contest with late penalty
Zamalek's 1-0 victory was just about deserved on the balance of play, though the scoreline flattered their overall performance. Despite enjoying 61% possession and completing 443 accurate passes (versus Ghazl El Mehalla's 39% and 252), Zamalek created fewer clear chances — their 3 shots on target and 0.67 xG (implied from 10 total shots) narrowly edged the hosts' 2 on target and 0.55 xG (from 11 shots). The game's decisive moment came from the spot, with Ahmed Sherif converting an 88th-minute penalty in a match otherwise defined by disciplined defending.
Ghazl El Mehalla were more aggressive in their shooting (5 shots inside the box to Zamalek's 4) and won 3 corners to Zamalek's 0, but lacked composure in key moments — only 18% of their total shots tested the goalkeeper. The visitors' superior ball retention (61% possession) allowed them to control the tempo, though it translated to just 0.6 shots per 10% possession. The penalty, coming after a flurry of second-half substitutions, was the game's only major lapse in defensive concentration — a reflection of how Zamalek's patient approach ultimately pried open a stubborn defense.