Zamalek exit Confederation Cup after losing at home to Stellenbosch - Egyptian Football
Defending champions Zamalek were stunned 1-0 at Cairo Stadium by unknown South African side Stellenbosch in the second leg of the Confederation Cup quarter-finals, exiting the competition alongside compatriots Masry, who were also eliminated earlier on Wednesday.
Stellenbosch forward Sihle Nduli netted the winner with ten minutes remaining, silencing the crowd and adding to the pain of the team's fans, who were already reeling from the reported departure of classy winger Ahmed 'Zizo' Sayed to archrivals Ahly.
Despite their advantage from a goalless away draw last Wednesday, Zamalek failed to impress during the match, as their opponents—participating in the continental competition for the first time in the club's history—were the better side throughout the full 90 minutes.
Zamalek created only two scoring chances during the game.
The first came in the 30th minute when Seif Jaziri connected with Ahmed Fatouh's cross from the left flank, but he failed to place the ball well, allowing the goalkeeper to collect it easily.
The second chance occurred in the early minutes of the second half, but the Tunisian striker also missed from close range, sending his shot wide.
The visitors, appearing more organized and fresher on the field, punished Zamalek with a deserved goal in the 79th minute, thanks to Sihle Nduli's shot from inside the box.
In response to the shock of conceding, Zamalek attempted to intensify their attacks, but their shy efforts lacked focus.
As the final whistle blew, the players exited the field to angry chants from their frustrated fans.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
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