Cairo, Egypt – Zamalek secured a 2-1 victory over AS Port of Djibouti in the first leg of their preliminary round CAF Champions League tie. The match was played at Cairo International Stadium.
Zamalek started the match strongly and managed to open the scoring early in the sixth minute. The goal came after Chico Banza broke down the left flank and sent in a cross into the penalty area. Mohamed Shehata then met it with a first-time shot that found the back of the net.
Djibouti responded with a dangerous attempt in the tenth minute, but Mohamed Sobhi made a brilliant save. Then, in the 24th minute, the post denied Zamalek a chance to extend their lead after deflecting a powerful shot from Ahmed Rabie.
Zamalek extended their lead in the 37th minute when Chico Banza rose to meet a corner kick from the right and headed it powerfully into the AS Port goal. The score then became 2-0.
In the second half, Zamalek continued their search for a third goal. Nasser Mansi almost scored in the 74th minute after attempting to capitalize on Omar Gaber’s cross, but his effort went wide.
AS Port managed to reduce the deficit in the 81st minute, after their striker capitalized on a mistake by Ahmed Khodary and went one-on-one with Mohamed Sobhi. He then slotted the ball into the net.
الفارس الأبيض يحسم المباراة لصالحه 🏹
أهداف فوز الزمالك على إيه إس بورت "2 / 1" بـ دوري أبطال إفريقيا ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/iMIel10ORr
— ON Sport (@ONTimeSports) September 4, 2026Zamalek maintained their lead during the remaining minutes, ending the match in their favor 2-1, and putting one foot in the next round before the return leg.
The second leg match between Zamalek and AS Port of Djibouti will take place as part of the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League. The match will determine who advances to the next round.
