Egyptian football analyst Ahmed Shobeir has said that Zamalek are the frontrunners to win the Egyptian Premier League title, while cautioning that the outcome is far from decided with several decisive matches still to come.
Speaking on his radio programme on Monday, Shobeir stressed that although Zamalek currently top the standings and are in a strong position, the remaining fixtures will ultimately determine the destination of the title.
“Zamalek is leading the league. Zamalek has five matches left, including two very difficult matches against Pyramids and then Al-Ahly respectively. If they win them, we will congratulate them on the league title officially.”
Crucial fixtures could shape outcome
Despite acknowledging Zamalek’s advantage, Shobeir rejected suggestions that the title race has already been settled.
“Are you telling me that Zamalek is the league champion now? I say no, but they are the closest, they are the closest numerically, but there are still five matches in which anything can happen, and Pyramids will not stop competing or give up and will fight until the end to win the league title.”
His remarks highlight the importance of upcoming matches, particularly against Pyramids FC and Al Ahly, which could prove decisive in shaping the final standings.
Lessons from last season’s dramatic finish
Shobeir pointed to last season as evidence that the title race can change unexpectedly, recalling how Pyramids came close to securing the championship before a late collapse.
“Pyramids had the championship within their grasp last year, but they lost in a very strange way against Pharco and then Al Ahly Bank, while Al Ahly won the rest of the matches and succeeded in winning the league championship. In fact, Al Ahly drew with Pyramids and succeeded in clinching the championship. They also benefited from other results despite the circumstances they went through, and yet they were crowned champions.”
This example, he suggested, demonstrates how consistency in the closing stages can outweigh earlier advantages.
Format changes add further uncertainty
Shobeir also referenced changes to the league format, noting that fewer teams and matches this season have increased the unpredictability of the competition.
“Last year there were nine teams and each team played eight matches, but this season there are seven teams and six matches played, so there are missing matches, and the more the team wins the remaining matches and earns three points in each match, the greater its chances of winning the title.”
The reduced number of fixtures means that each result carries greater significance, placing added pressure on teams to maintain winning form.
Strong form supports Zamalek’s position
On paper, Zamalek appear well-equipped to sustain their title challenge. Shobeir highlighted their attacking and defensive records as key strengths.
“Even on paper, Zamalek has become the strongest attacking team in the league with 36 goals, three goals ahead of Al-Ahly. It also has the second strongest defense after conceding only one goal. But the overall form of the team is very good, the fans are great, the spirit inside the stadium is distinctive, and there is clear determination and dedication from the players.”
These factors, combined with strong fan support and squad cohesion, have contributed to their current position at the top of the table.
Title within reach but not secured
While Zamalek hold a clear advantage, Shobeir’s analysis underscores the unpredictable nature of the title race. With key fixtures still ahead and rivals continuing to compete, the championship remains open.
The coming weeks are expected to provide decisive answers, as the league’s leading teams battle to convert potential into silverware.
