Al Masry vs Ismaily: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – March 6, 2026
One of the key fixtures of the 21st round of the Egyptian Premier League will take place this Friday in Alexandria at the Borg El Arab Stadium, where Al Masry will host their fierce rivals in the so-called Canal Derby – Ismaily. Let’s break down the likely outcome of this clash, where a top-table side faces a club enduring a tough season.
- See also: Adelaide United vs Wellington Phoenix: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – March 6, 2026
Match preview
Al Masry have enjoyed a fairly stable campaign and remain among the league leaders. The team currently sits fifth in the standings with 29 points and look confident at home – claiming five wins in nine home matches. Their recent results have been mixed: a win over Future (1-0), a draw with Arab Contractors (1-1), and a defeat in the last round against ENPPI (2-3).
The team's main strength lies in their organized play and ability to control the tempo. Al Masry rarely allow opponents to create many chances and often play pragmatically and cautiously at home, which frequently leads to low-scoring matches.
Ismaily, on the other hand, are enduring one of their toughest seasons in recent years, languishing in 21st place with just 11 points. Over their last six league fixtures, Ismaily have suffered five defeats and managed only one draw – against Ceramica Cleopatra (1-1). In the previous round, they lost at home to El Gouna (1-2).
Ismaily particularly struggle on the road. In nine away matches this season, they have lost seven times and are yet to register a single victory, averaging less than one goal per game. Weak finishing and defensive lapses have consistently cost them points.
Probable lineups
- Al Masry: Hamdy M., El Eraki K., El Mohamady B., Sobhi K., El Aash M., Deghmoum A., Sawwata A., Mugisha B., Ali H, Zemraoui O., Mohsen S.
- Ismaily: Mostafa, Farag, Ayman, Traore, Gamal, Camp, Al Nabris, Hacp, Hassan, Mohammed, Wagdi.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Al Masry have won three of the last six head-to-head matches against Ismaily.
- Each of the last three league meetings between these sides has seen under 2.5 goals.
- Ismaily have won just five of their last 35 matches in the Egyptian Premier League.
Prediction
The form and league positions of these two teams are vastly different. Al Masry are far more consistent, especially at home where they regularly collect points and rarely let opponents take control. Ismaily, meanwhile, are struggling at both ends of the pitch, and their away games frequently end in disappointment. Given the head-to-head statistics and the hosts’ playing style, a cautious game with few goals seems the most likely outcome.
