ZED vs Al Ahly

This early-season Egyptian Premier League clash matters early, with Al Ahly visiting ZED FC in round two of the new campaign. Last term, Al Ahly finished third in the championship group on 53 points, securing CAF Confederation Cup qualification, while ZED FC survived the relegation group in second on 49 points before reaching the Egypt Cup final. Both will want a fast start under the league's new two-phase format, where only six teams progress to the title race. Preseason form has been mixed for Al Ahly, who beat Nasr Cairo 5-1 before losing 2-1 to Barcelona in a friendly, and they open the league against Enppi just before this trip. ZED FC begin against Wadi Degla days earlier. The sides drew 1-1 in March, Trezeguet equalizing in the 89th minute after ZED FC keeper Ali Lotfy made a string of saves. Ahmed Atef, ZED FC's top scorer last season, remains a threat. Our prediction: 1-1