Zamalek of Cairo Stages Spectacular Comeback, Secures CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage Spot with 4-1 Victory over Djibouti’s Arta Solar.
In the 15th minute, the visitors surprised everyone by taking the lead when midfielder Warsama Hasan scored from close range following an exceptional solo performance by Yacouba Songne. Songne skillfully navigated past two defenders to set up Hasan inside the box.
However, Zamalek completely changed the game’s dynamics in the second half, scoring four goals thanks to the contributions of substitute Youssef “Obama” Ibrahim, Mahmoud “Shikabala” Abdel-Razek, Ahmed “Zizo” El Sayed, and Hamza Mathlouthi.
Zamalek initiated the game with a relentless attacking strategy, generating early opportunities through two free kicks near Arta Solar’s goal. Nevertheless, their efforts were thwarted as the Djiboutian side maintained defensive discipline and executed counter-attacks effectively.
The second half unfolded as an exhilarating reversal for the White Knights. They continued to apply offensive pressure and were denied twice by the woodwork.
In the second half, substitute Obama made a significant impact, equalizing for Zamalek just five minutes after the restart with a header following Zizo’s free kick that hit the crossbar. Shortly afterward, Shikabala increased the lead, scoring the second goal by converting Obama’s cross from the left side.
In the 74th minute, Zizo increased Zamalek’s lead with a header, taking advantage of Ibrahima Ndiaye’s shot that Arta Solar’s goalkeeper Jean-Noel Amonome had parried.
Tunisian defender Hamza Mathlouthi secured qualification with a well-placed shot after yet another error by the Djiboutian keeper.
The White Knights, champions in 2019, progress to the group stage with a 5-3 aggregate victory, overturning their 2-0 deficit from the first leg.
