Analysis The numbers behind the result
Goalless draw reflects balanced xG despite Zamalek's possession edge
The 0-0 draw was a fair reflection of play, with both Zamalek (1.07 xG) and Al Ittihad (1.12 xG) creating near-identical quality chances despite Zamalek's 61% possession dominance. The hosts' higher volume of shots (12 vs 12) and corners (7 vs 5) failed to translate into superior threat, with both sides managing just 2-3 shots on target apiece.
Zamalek's territorial control (475 passes at 84% accuracy) was undermined by a lack of cutting edge — only 8 of their 12 shots came inside the box, mirroring Al Ittihad's 6. The visitors were more disciplined in their pressing (10 fouls to 6) and marginally more efficient in build-up (78% pass accuracy from 39% possession). Substitutions dominated the second half (9 total changes) but none unlocked defences, with the only notable incidents being Semakula's 39th-minute yellow and Dabbagh's 95th-minute caution.
The stalemate was ultimately defined by the goalkeepers' parity — both prevented 0.24 xG through saves (Soliman 3 saves, Sobhy 2) to keep clean sheets.