Zamalek’s new coach Augusto Inacio was dealt the worst possible start in his debut with the Cairo giants after losing 2-0 to rivals Enppi in the Egyptian Premier League on Monday.
The two goals by striking duo Mahmoud Kaoud and Mohamed Hamdi Zaki on minutes 31 and 69 gave Enppi three precious points; adding more woes for Zamalek, who were dealt their fourth successive league loss.
Replacing coach Mohamed Helmi, who resigned after a series of unconvincing performances, the Portuguese coach Inacio hoped for a better start, but the stiff petroleum side prevented him from leading the Cairo giants back to winning ways.
The loss left Zamalek fourth in the Egyptian Premier League table with 40 points, a massive 18 behind leaders Ahly, who have played one match more.
Enppi moved forward to 11th place with 28 points.
Zamalek made a strong and quick start searching for an early goal, but Enppi was not such an easy opponent, as they quickly restored the balance, posing a real threat to the Whites.
Active playmaking trio Ayman Hefni, Shikabala and Moustafa Fathi played instrumental roles in Zamalek’s attacks alongside striker Bassem Morsi, but the team remained toothless against the goals.
After a superb follow inside the area on minute 32, Enppi’s striker Mahmoud Kaoud notched a goal to give the petroleum side an early lead.
Zamalek players quickly intensified their attacks to score the equaliser in the remaining minutes before half-time, but in vain, especially amid Enppi’s tightened defence.
Directly after the break, Zamalek pushed for the equaliser, but Enppi continued a perfect defensive strategy.
Ennpi’s second half substitute Mohamed Hamdi Zaki repaid the faith of his coach Tarek El-Ashri on minute 69, when he scored the second goal with a low shot in the right side after receiving a nice pass from the left winger.
Inacio reacted with double substitutions in a bid to reinforce his attacking line, but it wasn’t Zamalek’s day.
Zamalek’s winger Mostaf Fathi had a chance to score ahead of the final whistle, sending a clear shot, but Enppi’s keeper Ali Loutfy was on target, making a superb save.
Source: Ahram online sports
