Egyptian Super Cup
The Egyptian Super Cup kicks off the football season in the land of the Pharaohs, pitting the Egyptian Premier League champions against the Egypt Cup winners in a high-stakes opener that sets the tone for the year ahead.
History and foundation
Launched in 1972, Zamalek claimed the inaugural title with a 2-1 win over Ismaily. The 1980s and 1990s saw fierce rivalries between Al Ahly and Zamalek. A notable controversy erupted in 1998 when Al Ahly's win over Zamalek led to a boycott. In 2012, it was first held abroad in the UAE to curb fan violence. Paused in 2020 due to COVID-19, Zamalek triumphed upon return in 2021. Al Ahly leads with 15 wins, Zamalek close with 14.
Tournament format
It's a single knockout match between the league champions and cup holders; if one team won both, the league runners-up step in. Held in a neutral venue or abroad for safety, it features 90 minutes plus extra time and penalties if needed.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.5, highlighted by Al Ahly's 4-2 thrashing of El Gouna in 2018. Top scorers include Hossam Hassan with 4 goals, Mohamed Aboutrika and Wael Gomaa with 3. Stars like Mohamed Salah (early El Mokawloon days), Mohamed Abdel Shafy (Zamalek), and modern talents Percy Tau and Ahmed Sayed from El Ittihad have shone brightly.