Al Ahly and Zamalek are set to play a friendly match in Iraq, part of the celebrations for Baghdad’s selection as the Arab Capital of Tourism.
The match will be the inaugural edition of the Baghdad Cup. Qatari sports network Al Kass confirmed the arrangement, while Iraq’s Al-Rabiaa Sports Channel announced that all administrative procedures have been completed with both clubs. An official confirmation of the match is expected in the coming hours.
This will be the first friendly encounter between Egypt’s two biggest clubs since 1986, when they played to a goalless draw in a tournament held in Jordan. Historically, the two sides have met in 23 friendly matches, with Al Ahly winning 11, Zamalek securing 8 victories, and 4 ending in draws.
The Cairo giants have already clashed three times this season, in the CAF Super Cup, the Egyptian Super Cup, and the Egyptian Premier League. Zamalek triumphed in the CAF Super Cup via penalties, while Al Ahly won the Egyptian Super Cup in a similar fashion. Their most recent meeting in the league ended in a 1-1 draw, with Achraf Bencharki and Mahmoud Bentayg finding the net.
A final showdown between Al Ahly and Zamalek in the Egyptian Premier League title race is also on the horizon, though the date is yet to be determined.