Egyptian Championship. Second League B
The Egyptian Championship's Second League B stands as a vital tier in Egypt's football pyramid, where driven clubs from across the nation battle for promotion to higher divisions. It acts as a proving ground for aspiring teams, drawing scouts from the Premier League and the national team. In the 2023/24 season, 16 squads, mostly from central and southern Egypt, compete, infusing the league with regional rivalries and intense local derbies.
History and foundation
Second League B was established during the 2016 overhaul of Egypt's football structure by the Egyptian Football Association, splitting the Second Division into Groups A, B, and C to boost competition and regional development. Earlier iterations date back to the unified Second League in the 1950s, but the current setup unearthed gems like Mohamed Saleh, who rose from Group B to Al Ahly. The 2020/21 season, disrupted by COVID-19, saw El Harcka's stunning playoff triumph over favorites to earn Premier League promotion. The league has endured turmoil, including the 2012 stadium tragedies impacting security protocols.
Tournament format
The league features a single round-robin format with 16 teams playing 15 home and 15 away matches each, earning points via 3-1-0. Top two teams promote directly to the Second Division A or First League B; positions 3-6 enter playoffs for additional spots. Bottom four relegate to Second League C or regional leagues. The season spans August to May, with breaks for internationals and Ramadan. VAR implementation in playoffs since 2022 has enhanced officiating accuracy.
Interesting facts
Scoring is prolific, averaging 2.7 goals per game due to open play and defensive frailties. Ahmed Hassan of Petrojet holds the scoring record with 22 goals in 2022/23. Standout players include Mohamed Abdel Monem, now at Zamalek, and prodigy Khaled El-Ghandour, whose dribbling and vision signal elite potential. The league has nurtured stars like Salah, whose early career echoed these divisions.