Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
Al Ahly SC
Ceramica Cleopatra
Al Ahly vs Ceramica Cleopatra: Egyptian Premier League Prediction.
Al Ahly
Known as the "Red Devils," Al Ahly is one of Africa's most decorated clubs. They recently clinched their 12th CAF Champions League title and defended their national title in Egypt. Al Ahly has had an intense start to the season, narrowly losing the African Super Cup to Zamalek in a penalty shootout but later triumphing over the same rival in the Egyptian Super Cup, again through penalties. They comfortably advanced to the CAF Champions League group stage by defeating Gor Mahia, and their last competitive match saw a decisive 3-0 victory over Al-Ain in the Club World Cup quarterfinals.
Ceramica Cleopatra
Ceramica Cleopatra is a relatively new team, founded 17 years ago, but has already made a mark by finishing 9th last season and winning the Egyptian League Cup. This season, they also competed in the Egyptian Super Cup, losing to Al Ahly in the semifinals and again in a third-place playoff against Pyramids on penalties. Despite their youth, Ceramica has built a strong squad and could be a serious contender in the league this season.
Probable Lineups
- Al Ahly: Oufa Shebir, Kamal, Rabia, Yasser Ibrahim, Attamat Allah, Tawfik, Ashour, Afsha, Karim Nedved, Tau, Mohamed
- Ceramica Cleopatra: Bassam, Magdy, Mohamed, Nabil, Boudi, Kendoussi, Adel, Issa, Zalaka, Belhadj, Lakay
Match Facts
- Al Ahly is undefeated in six games this season, not having lost in regulation time.
- Ceramica Cleopatra has two games under their belt this season, with one draw and one loss.
- The odds are as follows: Al Ahly win – 1.5, Draw – 4.15, Ceramica Cleopatra win – 6.4.
Head-to-Head
The two teams met earlier this season in the Egyptian Super Cup semifinals, where Al Ahly won 2-1.
Prediction
Al Ahly comes in as the favorite, but Ceramica Cleopatra has shown resilience and could provide a tough contest. However, Al Ahly’s depth and experience should see them through. A promising bet here is Al Ahly to win with a -1 goal handicap.
