CAIRO — Zamalek and Pyramids FC have secured their spots in the 2024-2025 Egypt Cup final after triumphing over Ceramica Cleopatra and NBE Club, respectively.
Zamalek clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ceramica Cleopatra in the semi-final held at Cairo International Stadium, while Pyramids showcased their dominance with a commanding 4-0 win against NBE Club at the Air Defense Stadium.
Zamalek edges Ceramica
In the first semi-final, Zamalek started aggressively, applying intense pressure from the kickoff. Tunisian forward Seifeddine Jaziri nearly broke the deadlock early on, but his shot sailed over the crossbar, missing a key opportunity.
After the ninth minute, Ceramica Cleopatra began to gain possession and gradually settled into the game.
Zamalek took the lead in the 33rd minute when veteran playmaker Abdullah El-Said converted a penalty, awarded after he was fouled inside the box.
Ceramica Cleopatra responded in the second half, leveling the score in the 58th minute through winger Ayman Saad. He capitalized on a well-placed pass from central midfielder Islam Eissa on the right flank before slotting the ball into the net.
As the match neared its conclusion, Zamalek sealed their victory in the 90th minute. Winger Ahmed Mostafa ‘Zizo’ dribbled into the penalty area and struck a precise shot past Ceramica goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam, securing his team’s place in the final.
Pyramids dominate NBE
The second semi-final clash saw Pyramids FC assert complete control over NBE Club, with a commanding 4-0 victory.
Congolese striker Fiston Mayele opened the scoring in the 14th minute, followed by a goal from forward Ahmed Atef just three minutes later.
Burkinabe midfielder Ibrahim Blati Toure extended the lead in the 23rd minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, a goal confirmed after a VAR review.
Attacking midfielder Ramadan Sobhi sealed the victory in the 62nd minute, converting a penalty.
Pyramids’ dominance was evident throughout the match, as they created multiple chances and controlled possession, while NBE Club struggled to mount any meaningful resistance.
The match also saw a red card issued to NBE Club defender Mahmoud El-Gazar after he brought down Mayele inside the penalty area without playing the ball.
With both teams securing their spots in the final, anticipation is high for a thrilling conclusion to the Egypt Cup.
