Zamalek a few steps away from Egyptian League Glory

Zamalek moved within touching distance of a first Egyptian Premier League crown in six years after they eked out a 1-0 win over struggling Wadi Degla on Tuesday to open up a four-point lead on top after challengers Ahly stumbled.

A second-half header from striker Marwan Hamdi, who has yet to establish himself following his arrival last January, earned Zamalek a precious win after they missed several goal-scoring chances in a one-sided affair.

Ahly’s bid to win the league for a sixth successive season was dealt a blow after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Talae El-Geish, leaving them with a mammoth task with only three matches left.

Zamalek have 73 points, with Ahly second on 69. The Red Devils can still win the title if they move level on points with Zamalek, given their superior head-to-head record.

The White Knights will secure the title if they win their next two matches against Ceramica Cleopatra and El-Entag El-Harby.

Degla will face an uphill climb to stay in the top flight as they lie second from bottom with 25 points, four adrift of NBE, who still have one game in hand, in the safety zone.