Zamalek Rises with a Resounding Victory, Leading to the Departure of Ghazl El Mahalla’s Coach

Zamalek quickly bounced back from their recent setback by defeating Ghazl El Mahalla 4-0 in the fourth round of the Egyptian Premier League. 

The goals for Zamalek were scored by Nasser Mansi in the 18th and 21st minutes, Ahmed Mostafa “Zizo” from a penalty in the 73rd minute, and Hossam Abdel Magid in the 79th minute. The match also saw the sending off of Ghazl El Mahalla defender Yehia Zakaria in the third minute.

Under the guidance of Portuguese coach José Gomes, Zamalek swiftly overcame the impact of their previous 0-2 defeat against Al-Masry, raising their points tally to 9, placing them second behind leaders Al-Masry.

In contrast, Ghazl El Mahalla’s points remained at 4, placing them 13th on the league table. Their coach, Ahmed Eid Abdelmalek, announced his resignation, writing on Facebook: “Thank you to the fans of Ghazl El Mahalla for the support over the past year. Thanks also to Engineer Walid Khalil for his unwavering support for me, the club, the players, and the staff.” 

He added, “I wish the club and the players the best of luck. We worked hard to elevate the club and formed a strong team, but luck was not on our side after we secured promotion to the Premier League, where the team belongs.”

Mansi’s Brilliance and “El Wensh’s” Return

Nasser Mansi continued his impressive form by scoring two consecutive goals against Ghazl El Mahalla, cementing his position as Zamalek’s leading striker. Mansi first showcased his prowess during the African Super Cup against Al Ahly in Riyadh, where he netted an equalizer that paved the way for Zamalek’s victory on penalties.

Mansi’s future seemed uncertain during the summer transfer window, with rumors of a potential departure. However, circumstances changed in his favor, and he outperformed his peers, particularly Tunisian international Seifeddine Jaziri.

Statistically, Jaziri has scored 36 goals in 136 matches since joining Zamalek in the 2020-2021 season, accumulating 8,424 minutes.

In his first season, he netted 4 goals in 23 games, followed by 10 goals in 37 matches during his second season. His third season saw him score 12 goals in 39 appearances, while in the current season, he has managed only one goal in 8 matches.

Conversely, Mansi has scored 18 goals in 53 matches since donning the Zamalek jersey in the 2022-2023 season, accumulating 2,421 minutes. 

In his first season, he scored 7 goals in 16 matches, added 6 goals in 29 matches during the second, and has already netted 5 goals in 8 matches this season.

Zamalek also received positive news with the return of defender Mahmoud Hamdy “El Wensh,” who made his first appearance after 569 days away due to an ACL injury sustained on May 13, 2023, against Ismaily.

Coach Gomes introduced “El Wensh” in the 82nd minute, replacing Hossam Abdel Magid, aiming to ease him back into competitive action to regain full match fitness.

Coach Gomes praised his team, saying: “A well-deserved victory. This is the Zamalek I want to see.” 

He added, “I’m delighted with the players’ spirit. No one expected such a big win over Ghazl El Mahalla.”