Diaa El-Sayed says Ammouta and Moatamed Gamal would stay despite derby defeat

Diaa El-Sayed has clarified the positions of Hussein Ammouta and Moatamed Gamal ahead of the top-of-the-table match between Al Ahly and Zamalek: in his view, defeat would not lead either coach to leave his post.

Speaking on television on MBC Masr on Friday evening, El-Sayed said Ammouta would remain in charge of Al Ahly until the end of the current season, even if his team lost to Zamalek. He also said Moatamed Gamal would continue his work at Zamalek, including if the team were beaten by its rival.

The sides go into the match after five league rounds without, according to El-Sayed, having reached their best level. Zamalek are second with 13 points. Al Ahly also have 13, but trail their rivals on goal difference: the club have scored six goals, compared with seven for Zamalek.

El-Sayed also offered his prediction for the match. He expects Al Ahly to score early, within the first five minutes. In his view, that would force Zamalek to open up and attack in an attempt to equalise before half-time. That is his anticipated scenario, not a confirmed result.