Ahly-Zamalek Cairo derby to be played behind closed doors

Egyptian football rivals Al Ahly and Zamalek will clash on Thursday in the biggest fixture of the North African football league.

Egypt’s Football Association (EFA) said the derby will take place at the 86,000-seat Alexandria’s Borg El-Arab Stadium.

However, the fans of the two teams will have to watch the match at home as the game will be played behind closed doors due to a long-standing crowd ban in domestic football.

The derby used to be played at Cairo International Stadium, but has been moved to other venues following
deadly violence that has in the past plagued Egyptian football.

In February 2012, clashes between supporters of al-Masry and al-Ahly left more than 70 people dead in the coastal city of Port Said.

Zamalek defeated Al Ahly 3-1 when the two sides clashed in the Egyptian Cup final in August.

Al Ahly are on top of the league table with 42 points, 11 clear of Zamalek who have three matches in hand.