Pyramids FC secured a priceless 1-0 victory over league leaders Ceramica Cleopatra FC on Friday evening in Round 18 of the Egyptian League 2025-2026 season, a result that dramatically intensified the battle at the top of the table.
After a goalless first half at the Air Defense Stadium, the decisive moment arrived just two minutes into the second period. Mahmoud Zalaka delivered a low cross that found Hamed Hamdan in space outside the penalty area. The midfielder struck the ball cleanly with his left foot, sending an effort that slipped past goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam and into the net to give Pyramids the lead in the 47th minute.
Ceramica’s task had already become more complicated before halftime. Amr Kalawa was sent off in the 44th minute after receiving his second yellow card, forcing the league leaders to play the entire second half with ten men.
The defeat leaves Ceramica Cleopatra on 35 points from 17 matches, still at the summit but with more game than the other competitors.
Meanwhile, Pyramids move up from fourth to third place with 34 points from 16 matches, level on points with second placed Zamalek, who also won in the same round.
| Position | Team | Played | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ceramica Cleopatra | 17 | 35 |
| 2 | Zamalek | 16 | 34 |
| 3 | Pyramids | 16 | 34 |
| 4 | Al Ahly | 16 | 33 |
| 5 | Wadi Degla | 18 | 27 |
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