Zamalek clinched their fifth CAF Super Cup title after defeating arch-rivals Al Ahly 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout in Riyadh on Friday night.
Coach Marcel Koller and Al Ahly aimed for their ninth title, having last won in 2021.
However, Jose Gomes’ Zamalek was equally determined in front of a packed crowd at the Kingdom Arena, where deafening chants filled the air before kickoff.
The CAF Champions League champions were the favorites against Zamalek, the Confederation Cup holders, and took the lead just before halftime when Wessam Abou Ali converted a penalty, putting Al Ahly on track for another memorable victory over their rivals.
However, Nasr Mansi equalized for Zamalek in the 77th minute, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
Despite both teams having chances, the match remained goalless through extra time, with both defenses effectively neutralizing each other, leading to a penalty shootout.
Both sides successfully converted their first two penalties, but Al Ahly’s Yahia Attiyat Allah missed his third attempt.
His miss was followed by Wessam Abou Ali’s surprising failure to score after his first-half success, allowing Zamalek’s players to celebrate their victory.
The two teams will find out their fate in the upcoming CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup draw, scheduled for October 7 in Cairo, as they prepare to defend their titles.
