Cairo Giants Ahly started the new year in style after defeating Maqassa 2-0 in a league game at El-Salam stadium on Wednesday, claiming their ninth consecutive win in the domestic league this season.
Tunisian fullback Ali Maaloul opened the scoring in the 74th minute, while midfielder Mohamed Magdi doubled the lead six minutes later.
Ahly are at the top of the league table with a maximum 27 points, two points ahead of second-placed Arab Contractors, who played two games more.
Maqassa striker Amr Marei had the chance to give his side an early lead in the 2nd minute when he received a nice pass from midfielder Mohamed Mossaad that made him clear, but his effort went wide.
After Marei s chance, Ahly controlled the game in terms of possession but without making a real threat.
Maqassa Ethiopian winger Shemeles Bekele squandered another chance when he found himself clear, failing to control the ball while the goal was at his mercy.
On the other hand, Ahly s Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng squandered a good opportunity just before the break, his close-range shot going wide.
The second half was different for Ahly, who intensified their attacks, especially after Rene Weiler s decision to introduce veteran winger Walid Soliman and Angolan winger Geraldo two minutes before the hour-mark.
The duo made a quick impact when Geraldo gained a penalty converted by Ali Maaloul in the 74th minute.
Six minutes later, a poor clearance from Maqassa s defence allowed Mohamed Magdi to double the lead.
Marwan Mohsen failed to make it 3-0 after squandering a golden opportunity in injury time.
