Zamalek were crowned Egypt champions for the first time since 2004 on Tuesday, following Al Ahly 1-1 draw with Smouha SC at Petro Sport Stadium.
Six points adrift of the White Knights at the top of the Egyptian Premier League table with two games remaining, the Red Devils had no choice but to secure the three points to keep alive their slim chances of a 9th consecutive domestic title.
Smouha took the lead in the 50th minute thanks to an own goal by Ahly’s right-back Mohamed Hani, and Abdallah El-Saied 83rd minute equaliser from the penalty spot proved too little, too late for the eight-time African champions.
Defeated 2-0 by their archenemies in Alexandria last week, Zamalek had their revenge without kicking a ball and remain on course for an historic treble Egyptian League, Egyptian Cup and Confederation Cup.
“The boy who was only 10 years when we last won the league is now 21 years and a university graduate,†White Knights’ chairman Mortada Mansour commented.
“I congratulate all Zamalek's fans who were very patient.â€
Coach Jesualdo Ferreira and his team will be able to celebrate their national crown when they face Talae El-Geish on Wednesday.